The United Nations Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (STI Forum) is searching for breakthrough, scalable solutions addressing critical challenges in low-resource settings that can help accelerate progress on the SDGs. Young innovators and early-stage solution developers are encouraged to apply and contribute their creativity to advancing the SDGs.

APPLY NOW Source: 11th Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals | Department of Economic and Social Affairs

Call for Innovations Details

Building on the strong outcomes of the 2025 edition, which showcased 28 innovations from across the globe, the 2026 Call will focus on the STI Forum’s Theme on “Transformative, equitable and coordinated science, technology and innovation for the 2030 Agenda and a sustainable future for all” and advancing the following five SDGs:

SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)

SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy)

SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure)

SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)

SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)

Selected innovations will have the unique opportunity to be highlighted at the STI Forum, with a global audience of policymakers, experts, and innovators. Depending on resource availability, this may include the opportunity for in-person participation at United Nations Headquarters in New York. Young innovators from the Global South are especially encouraged to participate.

Subject to the availability of resources, this year’s selected innovators may have the opportunity to participate in a virtual capacity-building program. The intent of such a program is to strengthen innovators’ capacity beyond technical aspects, with potential topics covering how to communicate impact data and build core competencies for commercialization. These sessions are designed to help bridge the gap between innovation and implementation.

The Call seeks to engage young innovators, as well as underrepresented groups, including women and Indigenous innovators, whose perspectives and leadership are essential for inclusive and sustainable development. Key Dates

Submission Deadline: 18 January 2026