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Overview
Where ideas become impact. From Manchester, for the world.
Join us for a week-long celebration of innovation, from Monday, 5 to Friday, 9 October 2026.
Through hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, awards, talks and networking events, the Festival will showcase Manchester's vibrant, globally connected innovation ecosystem and bring together researchers, students, entrepreneurs, partners, investors and civic leaders to explore how ideas become impact.
Aligned with our strategy to 2035 – From Manchester for the world – and our ambition to deliver transformative innovation, the Festival will showcase how our people, partnerships and ideas change lives locally and globally. Whether you’re developing an idea, looking for collaborators, seeking investment opportunities or simply curious about how innovation happens, this is your chance to witness the breadth of activity taking place across the University and make new connections.
Why attend?
Researchers and academic colleagues
Join us to explore routes into enterprise, partnerships, funding and collaboration, while connecting with colleagues, students, partners and funders who can help turn ideas into real-world change.
Students
Meet founders, researchers, entrepreneurs and partners, discover opportunities to develop your career skills, and see how your ideas and ambitions can connect with real-world challenges.
Partners, investors and funders
Gain direct access to research expertise, emerging technologies, entrepreneurial talent, facilities and collaboration opportunities.
Meet the people and teams driving new ideas forward, explore opportunities for partnership and investment, and understand how Manchester works with industry, civic partners, investors and communities to deliver inclusive growth and impact at scale.
Stay informed
Register your interest
Sign up to receive updates about the Festival programme, registration details and opportunities to take part.
Events, speakers and registration details will be announced soon.
Register now to receive updates about the Festival programme
Latest news
Ideas with Impact Awards
Donor-funded awards are helping Manchester's entrepreneurs turn bold ideas into real-world impact.
Venture Further Awards 2026
The University's Masood Entrepreneurship Centre celebrates the very best of student enterprise.
Local Innovation Partnerships
The University has helped secure £50 million to boost innovation-led growth across Greater Manchester.
Techbio funding
Manchester spin-out Imperagen has secured £5 million to advance AI-powered enzyme engineering.
