Research on the regional innovation effect of science and technology exhibitions: Empirical evidence based on the World Youth Scientists Summit

Based on the practical case study of the World Youth Scientists Summit, this paper systematically explores the mechanism and implementation pathways through which science and technology exhibitions drive regional innovation development. Adopting a combined methodology of mechanism analysis and typical case studies, the research constructs a three-dimensional transmission framework of "talent aggregation—platform empowerment—industrial ecosystem restructuring," revealing how high-level sci-tech exhibitions effectively bridge the "knowledge-technology-industry" transformation channel through systematic resource integration and institutional design. Empirical research demonstrates that WYSS has not only significantly enhanced Wenzhou's node capacity within the global innovation network but has also achieved a structural leap in regional innovation capability by establishing a hierarchical talent cultivation system, promoting the construction of high-level platforms such as the "One Port, Five Valleys," and reshaping a networked, collaborative industrial innovation ecosystem. On this basis, the paper proposes policy insights such as strengthening platform-based operational thinking, balancing strategic layouts of "investing in material resources" and "investing in human capital", and optimizing the collaborative governance system between government and market. These insights provide a valuable theoretical paradigm and practical pathway for other regions seeking to empower regional innovation through sci-tech exhibitions.