The 2nd NACLICS Conference on Innovation, Development and Policy will take place from 24–26 June 2026 at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados. Organized by the North America and Caribbean Network on Learning, Innovation and Competence Building Systems (NACLICS), the conference brings together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and students to explore how innovation can contribute to sustainable and inclusive development. Under the theme “Modeling Tomorrow: Innovation for Sustainable Development,” the conference aims to strengthen scholarly and policy-oriented discussions on the role of innovation in addressing major social, economic, and environmental challenges. Particular emphasis is placed on reducing inequalities within and between countries and ensuring that development processes “leave no one behind.” The conference encourages contributions on a wide range of topics related to innovation and sustainable development, including innovation in the blue and green economy, poverty and hunger reduction, decent work and inclusive economic growth, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, industrial development and infrastructure, and digital transformation. These themes are closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants may contribute through research papers or special sessions. Research submissions may take the form of extended abstracts or full papers presenting original and unpublished work, while special sessions provide opportunities for collaborative discussions among experts on emerging issues in innovation and development. Accepted contributions will be included in the conference proceedings, providing visibility to ongoing research and policy debates in the field. The conference will be held alongside the NACLICS PhD Academy 2026, creating a unique environment for interaction between established scholars and early-career researchers. This combination promotes mentoring, knowledge exchange, and the development of international research networks across the Americas, the Caribbean, and beyond. By bringing together diverse perspectives from academia, industry, and policymaking, NACLICS 2026 seeks to advance understanding of how innovation systems can support sustainable development and generate positive social impact. The conference serves as an important platform for sharing research findings, discussing policy solutions, and fostering collaboration among those committed to building more innovative, resilient, and inclusive societies.
