Ten years after the creation of the OECD IPA Network, how have investment promotion agencies evolved in an increasingly fragmented and geopolitically complex environment – and what does this evolution signal for the future? In a more fragmented and strategically contested global economy, this session will launch the Mapping of Investment Promotion Agencies in OECD Countries 2026 and highlight major shifts in missions, governance and priorities. Beyond taking stock, the discussion will look ahead: Which models are gaining traction? And how can agencies translate a decade of transformation into a stronger strategic positioning for the years to come?

Health and life sciences have emerged as a top priority sector for IPAs across OECD countries, reflecting their central role in economic resilience, innovation and societal well-being. This session will explore how IPAs can strengthen their approach to attracting investment across the health value chain, including pharmaceuticals, medical technologies, biotechnology and digital health. What makes a health ecosystem attractive to investors? How can agencies facilitate linkages with research institutions, hospitals and innovation clusters? And how can investment promotion contribute to both competitiveness and resilience in the health sector?

As IPAs take on more complex and strategic roles, their internal capabilities and governance models must evolve accordingly. This interactive workshop will invite participants to reflect on key dimensions shaping the next generation of IPAs, including organisational structures, skillsets, use of digital tools, and coordination with government stakeholders. Through small-group discussions, participants will exchange experiences and identify practical approaches to strengthening institutional effectiveness. The session will aim to distil common challenges, emerging practices and priority areas for reform, feeding into a broader reflection on the future role of IPAs.

Emerging technologies are rapidly transforming how IPAs design and implement their strategies. From investor targeting and lead generation to project tracking and performance measurement, new tools offer opportunities to enhance precision, responsiveness and strategic insight. This session will explore how IPAs are integrating digital tools, data analytics and artificial intelligence into their operations. What concrete applications are emerging? How can these tools support more effective targeting and stronger monitoring and evaluation frameworks? And what challenges do agencies face in terms of data, skills and governance?

Drawing on the day’s discussions, this closing session will highlight key strategic priorities for IPAs and for the OECD IPA Network over the next decade. It will seek to articulate a shared ambition: strengthening the strategic role of IPAs, deepening peer learning and reinforcing the Network as a platform for evidence-based leadership in investment promotion.