Exploring the University's innovation ecosystem
The University of Manchester's inaugural Innovation Festival, taking place from 5 to 9 October 2026, brings together researchers, educators, innovators, entrepreneurs and partners from across the University's innovation ecosystem.
The festival offers an opportunity to explore how innovation can strengthen research, teaching, knowledge exchange and real-world impact. Attendees can connect across disciplines, identify potential collaborators and discover the partnerships, pathways and funding opportunities that help turn ideas into impact.
Event highlights
Building impact through innovation: from Manchester for the world
The festival launch event will explore Manchester's evolving role in UK innovation and politics, alongside the opportunities and challenges involved in achieving The University of Manchester's ambition to become the most innovative university in Europe by 2035.
Manchester to market
Discover some of the most exciting intellectual property commercialisation opportunities emerging from The University of Manchester Innovation Factory.
Powerhouse of innovation showcase
A drop-in networking and discovery event bringing together innovation-focused activities from across the University, creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Cambridge x Manchester partnership innovation summit
Explore how collaboration can accelerate innovation-led growth and translate discovery into real-world impact, highlighting the partnerships, ideas and innovation strengths emerging across Manchester and beyond.
The Founders' Playbook
This live interview series will provide insights from successful founders, exploring how they transformed ideas, research and innovation into impactful businesses.
Coller AI competition
The final of the Coller AI competition will showcase University of Manchester AI start-ups pitching responsible AI solutions to real-world challenges. Finalists will compete for a £100,000 equity investment from The Jeremy Coller Foundation.
Explore the full programme
In addition to the core programme, the festival includes a range of fringe events taking place throughout the week.
View the full schedule >>
Register now to attend the University of Manchester Innovation Festival 2026.