Exploring the Future of Digital Innovation
Welcome to the International Digital Futures Network
Join us at the forefront of digital transformation, where interdisciplinary collaboration meets groundbreaking innovation.
About the International Digital Futures Network
The International Digital Futures Network (IDFN) is a network of leading institutes around the world working on designing, developing and interrogating digital futures through academic research, policy work, sociotechnical approach to technology co-creation and co-design, and development of new methodologies and facilities.
With Bristol Digital Futures Institute (BDFI) at the hub of IDFN, ours is a vibrant, interdisciplinary network of academics, researchers and universities, working at the intersection of engineering, technology, science, arts and social sciences.
Our vision is to be a global force for good, by drawing on a diverse spectrum of people across sectors and disciplines, to co-create new opportunities and initiatives that will meet the world’s needs.
We hold regular meetings and events throughout the year and are in the process of creating visiting fellowship opportunities.
We welcome new members and are looking forward to growing the IDFN community.
Our Mission
Driving Innovation and Expanding Research
The International Digital Futures Network connects new global interdisciplinary institutes to expand and foster research capacity across institutions, sectors and geographical borders. Our collaborative approach responds to pressing issues by generating and advancing new understandings and providing thought leadership to drive innovation and create inclusive and sustainable digital futures.
Upcoming Events
Launch Event: Venture Café Edinburgh | 20 November 2025, 5om – 6pm
Join us for the launch of Venture Café Edinburgh at inaugural Thursday Gathering at Edinburgh Futures Institute, in partnership with ARIA (Advanced Research + Invention Agency).
The launch event and inaugural will bring together a broad spectrum of innovators — from startup founders and investors to academics and industry leaders — to connect, get inspired and build momentum.
20 November 2025
FREE
Media Liteacy in the Age of AI, Edinburgh Futures Institute
The British Council and Edinburgh Futures Institute will be holding a two- day training programme to explore media literacy and generate solutions to address misinformation and disinformation. Young people between 18 and 35 who are passionate about leading change will work together in interdisciplinary teams and create solutions on how disinformation can be addressed.
11 November 2025
FREE
Digitalize in Sthlm ’25: AI EVERYWHERE
Get inspired by in-depth discussions on how technology and digital transformation can contribute to a better society—both now and in the future. Engage with groundbreaking innovations designed to tackle societal challenges and enhance meaningful experiences.
11 November 2025
FREE
Conference: DIPAS_analytics
Explore how AI can improve public participation in urban planning at a conference in Hamburg, featuring discussions on transparent algorithms, open-source digital tools, integration with urban data systems, with a keynote speech by Prof. Michael Batty.
15 September 2025
FREE
News from our network
The IDFN members
