“Innovation is becoming increasingly prevalent in research funding guidelines, as well as being at the centre of many policymaker priorities from local to national and international. Traditionally seen as STEM-focused, innovation is now encouraged across disciplinary fields.

It’s not always obvious how humanities research might connect with current industry or social challenges, or when the right moment arises to share emerging research. What does innovation even mean in a humanities context? How do we embrace the full potential of humanities involvement in innovation? This plenary session will address the question in 3 ways: 1. Present ‘A Short History of Innovation’; 2. Share the current challenges of engaging with innovation from the humanities; 3. Hear case studies from humanities-based researchers (and/or partners) who have experience engaging with innovation.”