Last week, I had the privilege of attending the 40th Annual UK Science Park Association (UKSPA) Conference at the University of Warwick. It was an honour to participate in the panel session on “Innovation Clusters and Hotspots” alongside a remarkable group of experts from across the UK. With over 25 years in the innovation ecosystem space—setting up business incubators, innovation clusters, and developing Science Parks—these discussions felt both familiar and energizing. Most importantly, they underscored the critical role we play in shaping the future of innovation.
Clusters: More Than a Buzzword
On the panel, it was emphasized that innovation clusters aren’t static entities. They are dynamic, constantly evolving organisms—more a verb than a noun. As mentioned in the session before ours, clusters aren’t just a concentration of businesses in one place. While geographic proximity helps, it’s about much more than that. Clusters are defined by collaboration, growth, and connectivity.
Take Cambridge, for example: a "low-risk" place where high-risk activities, supported by high-risk capital, thrive. The result? A vibrant ecosystem that embraces uncertainty while providing the essential infrastructure to succeed—hallmarks of a thriving innovation environment.
Proximity, while important, is not enough. Connectivity and a sense of belonging to a community are what fuel progress within clusters. A cluster without both internal and external engagement is at risk of stagnation. It’s vital to cultivate relationships within the region and beyond, engaging with national and global players to ensure relevance and investment. Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation—it thrives in a web of connections.
Breaking Down Silos: The Power of Collaboration
One of the most compelling points during the panel was the role of Science Parks as key hotspots within innovation clusters. In my view, Science Parks are, and should be, the beating heart of an innovation ecosystem—a place that fosters community, accelerates collaboration, and supports entrepreneurs. Building a Science Park is not just about providing infrastructure; it’s about cultivating a culture of innovation.
During the session, the question arose: “Who is responsible for addressing the barriers to growth within these clusters?” The answer is clear: it’s a collective responsibility. Clusters can’t grow in a vacuum. Public bodies, private sector leaders, and educational institutions must work together to remove barriers, share best practices, and create fertile environments for innovation to thrive.
A particularly poignant moment for me was when we discussed whether the UK’s Industrial Strategy could help create a unified vision for our innovation clusters. I firmly believe it can. A national framework that fosters collaboration across clusters could position the UK as a global leader in innovation. While definitions of clusters may vary, a cohesive narrative is key to elevating the UK on the world stage.
Confidence Through Collaboration
One recurring theme throughout the conference was the outward-looking nature of successful clusters. The best clusters don’t hunker down and protect their turf—they reach out, collaborate, and attract resources, talent, and investment from across the globe. They give international investors the confidence to take risks, offering something concrete: a proven track record of scientific collaboration, a fast track to innovation, and a highly connected network that enhances global competitiveness.
This resonates with a belief I’ve long held: collaboration is not a luxury, it’s essential. We need to go beyond traditional networking and focus on building strong links between stakeholders within and across clusters. Innovation accelerates when we connect academia with industry, investors with entrepreneurs, and start-ups with established corporations. Each relationship adds value and momentum to the evolution of the cluster.
The Role of Science Parks in Driving Innovation
Professor Paul Monks, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, delivered a closing remark that captured the essence of our discussions. He pointed to Kettering Energy Park as an example of how Science Parks drive a knowledge-based economy. They foster collaboration, entrepreneurship, and innovation, while also supporting skills development and education. This environment forms the foundation for building strong, sustainable innovation clusters.
In many ways, this perfectly sums up the role of Science Parks in the future growth of regional and national innovation ecosystems. They offer not just infrastructure but a place where bold, high-risk ideas can thrive, supported by high-risk capital. Science Parks create an environment where collaboration becomes a natural part of doing business.
Looking Ahead: Oxford to Cambridge and Beyond
During the panel, I spoke about the Oxford to Cambridge pan-Regional partnership and our ongoing efforts to strengthen innovation ecosystems, networks, and clusters, while attracting investment to the region. Partnerships like these, which unite key players from various regions, are critical to creating a shared vision and driving sustainable, inclusive growth.
Looking ahead, I’m confident that we’ll see even greater connectivity and cooperation between innovation clusters across the UK. This will drive forward not just our national competitiveness but our global standing as well. Together, we can build ecosystems that are not only hubs of cutting-edge research and development but also vibrant communities that deliver real value to investors, entrepreneurs, and society as a whole.
Final Thoughts
The UKSPA Conference reminded me why I’ve been so passionate about innovation clusters and ecosystems for nearly three decades. It’s not just about buildings and infrastructure—it’s about people, relationships, and the boldness to take risks together. As we look to the future, I truly believe the UK has all the ingredients to build clusters that are world-class. And I’m excited to continue being part of this journey.
Placi Espejo
Director of Investment and Innovation , Innovation Ecosystem Specialist, Coach and Mentor
placi.espejo@cherwell-dc.gov.uk