Deadline: January 18, 2026
The 11th Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs 2026 is a major United Nations event aimed at leveraging science, technology, and innovation (STI) to accelerate progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Innovators, researchers, and stakeholders from all sectors are encouraged to participate in this global platform to showcase transformative solutions that can drive sustainable development worldwide.
This 11th Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs 2026 brings together leaders, experts, and innovators to exchange knowledge, collaborate, and identify strategies that can scale impact in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About the STI Forum 2026
The 11th Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs (STI Forum 2026) is organized under the United Nations Technology Facilitation Mechanism (TFM) and convened by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) with support from the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the UN Inter-agency Task Team on STI for the SDGs.
The forum serves as a collaborative space for governments, scientists, civil society organizations, private sector actors, and development partners to share experiences, highlight scalable solutions, and strengthen global partnerships to achieve the SDGs.
Date and Venue
- Date: May 6–7, 2026
- Location: United Nations Headquarters, New York, USA
- Format: Hybrid participation, allowing both in-person and virtual attendance
Theme and Focus Areas
The theme for the 11th Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs 2026 is:
“Transformative, equitable and coordinated science, technology and innovation for the 2030 Agenda and a sustainable future for all.”
The forum will focus on STI contributions toward the following 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
Call for Innovations 2026
The United Nations has opened its Call for Innovations for the STI Forum 2026, seeking breakthrough solutions from young innovators, scientists, entrepreneurs, and early-stage developers. Innovations should demonstrate measurable impact and the potential to address SDG challenges, especially in low-resource or underserved communities.
Objectives of the Call
- Identify and showcase scalable and impactful solutions addressing key SDG challenges.
- Provide innovators with global exposure to UN Member States, funders, and policymakers.
- Promote inclusive participation, particularly from women, youth, and Indigenous innovators.
Benefits for Selected Innovators
Selected innovators will enjoy:
- Global visibility at a high-level United Nations event
- Opportunities to network with collaborators, investors, and policymakers
- Potential invitations to present and showcase innovations at the forum
- Engagement in discussions that can scale innovations globally
Who Can Apply
The Call for Innovations 2026 is open to:
- Young innovators and early-stage solution developers working on SDG-related solutions
- Women and Indigenous innovators with transformative ideas
- Innovators from low- and middle-income countries with scalable, sustainable solutions
Application Deadline
- Submission Deadline: January 18, 2026
Early submission is encouraged as shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional information or participation opportunities.
Why Participate
The STI Forum is a critical global platform for accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals through science, technology, and innovation. Participation offers innovators the opportunity to influence policy, scale their solutions, and collaborate with global stakeholders committed to sustainable development.
How to Apply and Learn More
📖 Read more about the Programme
For professional assistance with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact us today to ensure your innovation stands out for global recognition.
