Innovation Without Borders: Insights from the ISTA Forum 2024
Daniel Dardani
Director, AUTM Board
Director, Physical Sciences & Digital Innovations Licensing and Corporate Alliances
Duke University
This fall, I had the privilege of representing Duke University and AUTM at two extraordinary events in Hong Kong, both of which highlighted the importance of global collaboration to advance innovation.
It all began last September, when I was invited to deliver a two-day training course to Knowledge Transfer Office (KTO) Directors and leaders from academia and industry across Hong Kong. The focus? AI, software, and medtech data licensing—topics at the heart of many modern innovations. The sessions were met with great enthusiasm and engagement; the experience highlighted a shared thirst for knowledge and education in this budding space. There was a desire bordering on a demand for how best to translate groundbreaking AI research and software tools into real-world, impactful opportunities. The feedback was positive and overwhelming; the chatter in the room hinted about a potential return invitation to deepen the conversation.
That opportunity came in November, when I was invited back to speak at the International Strategic Technology Alliance Forum (ISTA) and to attend The Times Higher Education Global AI Forum. Held at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, the ISTA Forum has been a cornerstone of global collaboration since its founding in 1995, fostering partnerships among its 31 member institutions spanning Mainland China, Hong Kong, the UK, and the USA. This year’s theme, “Innovation Without Borders: Navigating Local Realities and Opportunities in a Global Context,” was a natural fit with AUTM’s mission to support and advance knowledge and technology transfer worldwide.
There was, however, one little wrinkle to overcome since the ISTA was set to take place on Thanksgiving Day. Luckily, my family’s gracious permission allowed me to be away for the beloved holiday and attend.
At ISTA, I delivered a talk on how universities can serve as engines of innovation through agile technology transfer strategies, particularly in transformative fields like AI and healthcare applications. I was glad to present alongside esteemed colleagues, Declan Weldon of Cambridge Enterprise and Alwin Wong of ATTP, as we fielded thoughtful questions from an audience of KTO leaders, industry representatives, and policymakers. The discussions reflected a group determination to break down barriers that impede effective global collaboration while respecting geopolitical and cultural realities.
The following day, I joined The Times Higher Education Global AI Forum, where many bright minds debated the ethical, societal, and educational implications of AI’s rapid integration into our lives, especially into higher education. It was inspiring to see so many experts discussing the real need for oversight, governance, thoughtful and equitable deployment of AI technologies that can benefit all.
Innovation transcends borders, and that is why it important for events like ISTA and Times Global AI Forum to continue to happen. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to lend my insights and expertise promoting global initiatives and sharing best practices with international colleagues. It’s a reminder that our work is not just about how many deals can we achieve—it’s about creating meaningful connections, facilitating progress, and building partnerships, at home and abroad, to achieve a more innovative, collaborative future for everyone.
Photos courtesy of Daniel Dardani.