Welcome to the second Fourth Generation Knowledge Districts Conference conference! 

In 2024, the first Fourth Generation Knowledge Districts Conference started a new series of events devoted to the study of innovation and knowledge-production environments. In 2026, the second edition of this event will broaden the discussion, including more topics and drawing experts from a wider array of disciplines, in order to establish an unparalleled forum for sharing perspectives. The conference will have three main topics - (1) Innovation economy and the organization of innovation ecosystems, (2) Social innovation and (3) Urban innovation - which will be permeated by Sustainable Development as a core concept.

While the first edition took place at the International Hub for Sustainable Development (HIDS) in Campinas, the second 4GKD will be held in the São Paulo Innovation District, in the western part of the city of São Paulo, a joint initiative of USP, IPT, IPEN, Instituto Butantan, Fapesp, the City of São Paulo and the Government of the State of São Paulo. The area, crossed by the Pinheiros River, includes the University City, Vila Leopoldina, Jaguaré and Pinheiros, bringing together several technology companies, open innovation programs, public bodies and environmental agencies, as well as more than 300 advanced research centers funded by Fapesp.

The event will include a variety of activities, such as workshops, round tables, mini courses, technical visits and scientific papers presentations, and will be highlighted by impactful keynote speeches and an awards ceremony. The objective of 4GKD2026 is to bring together society and actors from the triple helix (government, universities and the industry) in order to collaboratively identify and solve complex challenges, creating a powerful synergy that generates mutually beneficial outcomes and enhances overall societal progress. 

Important dates

Call for papers: December, 2025
Abstract submission deadline: March 30th, 2026
Other forms of contributions are also welcome
Notification of abstract acceptance: April 15th, 2026
Extended abstract submission deadline: May 15th, 2026
Notification of extended abstract acceptance: June 15th, 2026
20% discount registration: by June 16th, 2026
Camera-ready extended abstract: July 1st, 2026
10% discount registration: by June 15th, 2026
Registration deadline: August 1st, 2026
Workshops: August 17-18, 2026
Conference: August 19-21, 2026

Check out the Call for papers and abstracts page