Regional Studies Association (RSA) 60th Anniversary Workshop

Attended Regional Studies Association (RSA) 60th Anniversary Workshop at Alliance Manchester Business School Titled: Inclusive Innovation for regional Futures: Bridging Economic Development, Ecological Recovery and Social Equity.

Programme explores: Inclusive innovation and the future of the North; Innovation and governance in a changing UK; The roles of Universities and FE as anchor institutions and Inter-regional learning and UK-wide perspectives.

Discussions highlighted that innovation must be both inclusive and locally grounded, addressing inequalities while fostering productivity and resilience. Strengthening multi-level governance was recognised as essential for aligning national ambitions with regional priorities. HE and FE colleges were acknowledged as vital anchor institutions, driving research, skills, and civic leadership. Participants also emphasised the value of inter-regional collaboration to share knowledge, scale successful initiatives, and strengthen the UK’s collective capacity for innovation.