Payment was processed through the conference registration platform. All fees were quoted in GBP and included VAT.

Cancellation and refund requests were handled according to the published policy. For any queries regarding registration, delegates could contact the organisers at thc2018@thc2018.org.

The Triple Helix model has long served as a framework for understanding how universities, industry, and government can collaborate to drive innovation and economic development. The 2018 conference in Manchester sought to expand this vision beyond traditional boundaries, exploring how these partnerships can address the huge societal, environmental, and political challenges of our time. Delegates from around the world gathered to share effective practices and advance the frontiers of knowledge, with a particular focus on the role of cities as enabling spaces for productive interactions. The event emphasised that meaningful progress requires concerted efforts and innovative thinking across all sectors of society.

Early-career researchers occupied a central place in the conference programme, reflecting a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovation leaders. Dedicated sessions and networking opportunities allowed emerging scholars to engage directly with established figures from academia, government, and business. The conference recognised that fresh perspectives are essential for tackling complex global challenges, and that supporting researchers at the beginning of their careers strengthens the entire innovation ecosystem. These interactions helped build lasting connections across disciplinary and institutional boundaries, fostering a collaborative spirit that extends well beyond the event itself and into future joint initiatives.

Manchester provided a fitting backdrop for discussions about innovation and collaboration, given its own history as a city transformed by industrial partnerships and knowledge exchange. The conference programme explored how regions can positively promote economic development through strategic alliances between research institutions, policymakers, and entrepreneurial communities. Sessions examined practical examples of how the Triple Helix concept has evolved to include broader societal stakeholders, creating more inclusive and sustainable models of progress. The conversations underscored that building resilient innovation systems requires ongoing commitment to diversity of thought, cross-sector dialogue, and a shared vision for the future.