The Cambridge x Manchester Partnership Innovation Summit

The Cambridge x Manchester Partnership presents the Innovation Summit as part of the University of Manchester Innovation Festival on 8 October 2026.

At a time when innovation-led growth, devolution and regional collaboration are increasingly shaping the national agenda, the Summit will bring together founders, researchers, corporates, investors, policymakers and civic leaders to explore a simple but important question:

What does a genuinely world-class innovation ecosystem require, and what is Britain still missing?

The Cambridge x Manchester Partnership was created to demonstrate how two of the UK's most powerful and complementary innovation ecosystems can achieve more by working together than by competing. Bringing together expertise, talent, investment and industry from across both cities, the Partnership is building a practical model for innovation-led growth that can be replicated elsewhere in the UK.

Through keynote speakers, panel discussions, sector showcases and networking opportunities, participants will explore the challenges and opportunities facing the UK's innovation economy and hear from those working at the intersection of research, entrepreneurship, investment and policy.

· Hear perspectives from founders, researchers, investors, corporates and policymakers

· Explore how collaboration between cities and institutions can accelerate innovation-led growth

· Discover emerging innovative ventures across Life Sciences, Quantum, Climate Tech, Defence, Advanced Manufacturing & Materials, and Creative Industries

· Connect with leaders from across the Cambridge and Manchester innovation ecosystems

· Contribute to the conversation shaping the future of UK innovation

Exploring why collaboration between places, not just competition, will determine the UK's future innovation success.

A flagship discussion bringing together academia, founders, industry and investors to explore what cross-city collaboration looks like in practice and what it takes to build a world-class innovation ecosystem.

Six fast-paced talks showcasing innovation across the Cambridge x Manchester Partnership's priority sectors:

· Life Sciences

· Quantum

· Climate Tech

· Defence

· Advanced Manufacturing & Materials

· Creative Industries

What is Britain's innovation economy still missing?

A panel discussion exploring the ingredients required for globally competitive innovation ecosystems and what the UK needs to accelerate growth and impact.

Continue the conversation with innovators, investors, researchers, corporates and policymakers from across the UK.

If you need a BSL intepreter, please register by the 22nd September

Event venue & nearby stays

Sister - Renold Building, 32a Altrincham Street, Manchester, United Kingdom

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