Conference attendees were able to book accommodation through the registration platform. Rooms were allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and rates were inclusive of VAT.

Both hotels were situated on the Oxford Road corridor, close to the University of Manchester conference venues. The Staybridge Suites offered a fixed rate of £156 per night for single and double occupancy during the conference dates.

All accommodation bookings were handled via the conference registration system managed by Conference Partners International.

The Triple Helix model has long served as a framework for understanding how universities, industry, and government interact to drive innovation and economic development. The 2018 conference in Manchester explored how this model is evolving to address the complex societal, environmental, and political challenges of our time. Delegates from around the world gathered to share effective practices and advance the frontiers of knowledge through cross-sector collaboration. The event underscored that meaningful progress requires moving beyond traditional silos toward more dynamic, inclusive partnerships. By bringing together researchers, policymakers, and business leaders, the conference created a space for rethinking how innovation ecosystems can be structured to deliver sustainable outcomes for communities and regions alike.

A central theme of the conference was the critical role cities play as enabling spaces for innovation and collaboration. Manchester, with its rich industrial heritage and vibrant knowledge economy, provided an ideal backdrop for discussions on urban transformation. Participants examined how cities can foster interactions between different stakeholders, creating environments where new ideas flourish and translate into tangible benefits. The conversations highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion in shaping innovation agendas that truly reflect the needs of all citizens. As urban centres continue to grow, their capacity to host productive exchanges between academia, business, and government will be essential for tackling shared challenges and building resilient, forward-looking communities.

The conference marked a new era for the Triple Helix community, one characterised by a broader, more inclusive approach to innovation. Beyond the traditional three spheres, discussions incorporated the perspectives of civil society, creative industries, and social entrepreneurs. This expanded view recognises that the most pressing problems facing society require concerted efforts from a wide range of actors working together. The programme featured keynote speeches, panel debates, and master classes that encouraged participants to think beyond conventional boundaries. The emphasis on early-career researchers and inclusive practices reflected a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators. Ultimately, the gathering reaffirmed that collaborative, cross-sector partnerships remain the most promising path toward meaningful and lasting progress.