What does it take to turn a good idea into something that creates lasting impact? Often, it takes more than a breakthrough invention or an ambitious research project. It takes the right people, systems, partnerships and expertise to help that idea move from the drawing board into the world.

That is where research and innovation management plays an increasingly important role, and why conversations around the future of the sector matter.

From 8 to 11 September 2026, research and innovation professionals from across the region will come together in Johannesburg for the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA) Conference. This year’s theme, Resilient Futures: Reimagining Research and Innovation Management for Impact and Inclusion, reflects an industry that is constantly evolving and the need to think differently about how research and innovation can deliver meaningful outcomes.

For Spoor & Fisher, our continued involvement in SARIMA is a natural fit. We are pleased to once again be a Platinum Sponsor of the conference, building on our ongoing engagement with the research, innovation and technology transfer community.

Research and innovation do not happen in isolation. Behind many of the technologies, inventions and ideas that have the potential to change industries are researchers, universities, technology transfer professionals, entrepreneurs and businesses working to move those ideas forward. Protecting and managing the intellectual property arising from this work is an important part of the journey.

2026 SARIMA Conference

SARIMA provides a valuable space for the people involved in this ecosystem to share experiences, exchange ideas and build relationships. It is also an opportunity to look beyond individual projects and consider the bigger picture: how can research and innovation management strengthen institutions, support collaboration and help promising ideas reach their full potential?

For Spoor & Fisher, being part of that conversation is about more than simply having presence at an industry event. It is about listening, learning and engaging with the people who are shaping the future of research and innovation in Southern Africa.

Several members of our team will be attending this year’s conference, including Dirk Hanekom, John Foster, Tyron Grant, Chyreene Truluck, Thandanani Cwele, Cwengile Cwele and Amy Anderson. They will be engaging with research and innovation professionals, reconnecting with longstanding clients and building new relationships within the technology transfer space.

And, of course, conferences are about people as much as they are about programmes and presentations. The best conversations often happen between sessions, over coffee, during a catch-up with a familiar face or in a discussion that starts with one question and ends up opening an entirely new door.

As research and innovation continue to reshape industries and create new opportunities across Africa, collaboration will be key to ensuring that those opportunities translate into meaningful impact.

The 2026 SARIMA Conference promises to be an important platform for those conversations. As a returning Platinum Sponsor, Spoor & Fisher is looking forward to hosting, and to contributing to a community that is helping build a more resilient, inclusive and innovation-driven future.