FAQs
Welcome to the FAQ section for the 42nd IASP World Conference. Here, you will find answers to the most common questions about the event, including details on registration, accommodation, transportation, technical tours, the pre-conference seminar, and more. If you need further assistance, please contact us at events@iasp.ws.
General information
When and where is the 42nd IASP World Conference?
The 2025 IASP World Conference will be held from 16-19 September. It will take place at The CNCC- China National Convention Center, No.7 Tianchen East Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China.
What is the main theme of the conference?
The main theme of this year’s conference is “Elevating Excellence – Innovation Spaces Driving High-Quality Development”.
Registration
How do I register for the conference?
You can register for the conference using the registration page, which will be available at the beginning of 2025.
What is the registration fee?
The registration fee varies depending on your membership status and the date of registration. Super Early Bird rates will be available shortly.
What is included in the registration fee?
The full conference registration fee includes access to all sessions, technical tours (subject to availability), conference materials, meals, and social events.
Training seminar
What is the pre-conference training seminar?
The pre-conference training seminar offers a unique opportunity to learn the key pillars of science and technology park (STP), innovation district (ID), and area of innovation (AOI) management from experienced peers. It is ideal for newcomers to the industry, new CEOs, and anyone working on setting up a new STP, ID, or AOI. It includes discussions on strategic models, incubation, marketing and communication, services, governance, challenges, and opportunities.
When and where will the pre-conference seminar take place?
The pre-conference seminar will take place on 16 September, the day before the main IASP Beijing scientific programme begins.
How do I register for the pre-conference seminar?
Register for the pre-conference seminar during the main conference registration process on our website, rates will be available shortly.
Is there an additional cost to attend the pre-conference seminar?
Yes, there is an additional fee for the seminar.
What topics will be covered in the pre-conference seminar?
The seminar will cover crucial concepts in the conceptualisation, planning, and management of STPs, IDs, and AOIs, including strategic models, incubation, marketing and communication, services, governance, challenges, and opportunities.
Technical tours
What are the technical tours?
The technical tours are guided visits to local science parks, innovation hubs, and technology centres in and around Beijing, offering delegates a chance to see the innovative work being done and network with local industry leaders.
When will the technical tours take place?
The technical tours are scheduled before and after the main conference programme. Detailed timings and itineraries are available soon.
How do I sign up for a technical tour?
Sign up for the technical tours during the conference registration process on our website. If already registered, you can add a tour to your registration by logging back into your booking portal account.
Is there an additional cost to participate in the technical tours?
Participation in the technical tours is included in the conference registration fee. Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Will transportation be provided for the tours?
Yes, free transportation to and from the tour sites will be provided. Delegates will be picked up from and returned to the conference venue.
What should I wear for the technical tours?
Business casual attire is recommended. Comfortable shoes are advisable as some tours may involve walking.
Transportation
How do I get to the conference venue from the airport?
The conference venue is accessible by taxi, ride-sharing services, and public transportation. Alternatively, delegates may also book an airport transfer with their hotel.
Travel and accommodation
Do I need a visa to enter Beijing?
Visa-Free Access to China: If you’re from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain and Switzerland, you can visit China visa-free for 15 days until December 31st, 2025. If you’re from Singapore or Malaysia, you can relish visa-free access to China for up to 30 days.
For more information, to get a Visa please visit the website.
Should I get travel insurance?
It is highly recommended that all delegates obtain travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events.
Are there recommended hotels for conference attendees?
Yes, we have partnered with several hotels close to the conference venue. You can find a list of recommended hotels and booking links on our travel and accommodation page.
Is there a discount for conference attendees at these hotels?
Yes, we have secured special rates for our delegates. Simply follow the booking instructions to access the discount.
Health and safety
Are there any vaccination requirements for traveling to China?
Some vaccinations may be required or recommended for travel to Beijing. Please consult your national healthcare provider or travel clinic for advice on necessary vaccinations.
What health precautions should I take when traveling to China?
In addition to vaccinations, it is advisable to take precautions like tap water is generally not safe to drink. Only drink bottled water.
The legal status and regulations of certain medications vary by country. If you take prescription medication, bring an adequate supply, as some medicines may not be available in China and others may be restricted from entry. Consult the Chinese Embassy for specific guidance before travelling.
Do I need to arrange my own health insurance for the conference?
Yes, delegates are responsible for arranging their own health insurance to cover any medical expenses that may arise during the conference. Healthcare is not free in China and can be very expensive.
The conference has standard event liability insurance, which covers general liability and ensures the smooth running of the event. However, this does not cover individual health or travel insurance needs.
Sessions and events
Where can I find the conference schedule?
The conference schedule is available on our website. It will be updated regularly as we finalise the sessions.
Can I attend any session I want?
Yes, your registration grants you access to all conference sessions. This does not include the training seminar and technical tours which, due to limited availability, must be selected during the registration process. If already registered, you can add a tour to your registration by logging back into your booking portal account.
Are there networking events?
Yes, there will be several networking events, including a welcome reception, informal dinner and gala dinner.
What is the dress code for the conference and the gala dinner?
The dress code for the conference is business casual, which includes smart trousers, dress, shirts or blouses, and comfortable shoes suitable for a professional setting.
For the gala dinner, the dress code is formal or semi-formal. This includes suits, dress shirts with ties, cocktail dresses or formal evening wear. Please dress to impress while ensuring your comfort throughout the evening.
Contact information
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
A: For any additional questions, please contact our Events team on events@iasp.ws.