A big thank you to all our researchers across The Productivity Institute this Postdoc Appreciation Week! Your knowledge, commitment and hard work are central to our research and the wider TPI community. We greatly appreciate everything you do.

As the Conference comes to a close, a clear theme has emerged: connectivity. From 5G and digital infrastructure to connecting businesses with the right people, networks and opportunities, stronger connections help drive productivity. Thanks to everyone who joined us in Manchester.

Innovation, investment and risk were at the heart of this afternoon's panel. From @teraallas.bsky.social and Stephen Roper's research on the UK's investment gap to examples of innovation success like Atom Valley, the discussion explored what it takes to turn ambition into productivity growth.

Skills are central to the UK's growth ambitions. This afternoon began with a panel exploring how employers, educators and policymakers can work together to build the workforce needed for future growth, with discussion on investment, upskilling and aligning skills provision with industry needs.

What does it take to help businesses start up and scale up across the UK? Today's panel explored the importance of talent, investment, infrastructure, confidence and strong local ecosystems, with insights from business, academia and innovation leaders.

What makes places thrive? Today's discussion on place and industrial strategy explored how national ambitions for growth need to be shaped by local strengths, opportunities and capabilities. An insightful session on the role of place in productivity and prosperity.

Today we're bringing together policymakers, business leaders and researchers in Manchester for the joint Industrial Strategy Advisory Council and The Productivity Institute Policy Conference. Discussions are focused on place, skills, innovation, investment and the long-term drivers of UK growth.

Breakout sessions have now wrapped up at the TPI Academic Conference, with delegates moving into the final panel discussion of the day. Plenty of insightful research, lively debate and new connections so far.

Today's keynote address came from @francoislafond.bsky.social who shared insights on innovation, technological change and the future direction of productivity research.

A strong start to the TPI Academic Conference today, with Professor Jun Du opening a day of discussion, debate and new research on productivity. Great to welcome colleagues from across the UK and beyond to Manchester.