Deadline: August 18, 2025
The UNIDO UNCTAD Global Call for Inclusive Digital Economy Solutions 2025 is now open for applications. Launched on 10 July 2025, this initiative invites innovators, entrepreneurs, and organisations worldwide to submit digital solutions aimed at fostering inclusive digital economies. Backed by UNIDO, UNCTAD, the UN Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET), and the UN Development Coordination Office (UNDCO), this global call aligns with Objective 2 of the Global Digital Compact and the broader 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
This is a golden opportunity for changemakers seeking visibility, support, and partnerships on a global scale.
About the UNIDO UNCTAD Global Call for Inclusive Digital Economy Solutions 2025
The UNIDO UNCTAD Global Call for Inclusive Digital Economy Solutions 2025 focuses on bridging the digital divide and enabling equal access to digital tools and services. With a specific emphasis on empowering women, youth, MSMEs, and marginalised populations, the call supports the creation of a more resilient, inclusive digital ecosystem.
It offers a unique platform for public, private, academic, and civil society organisations to share scalable, impactful digital innovations that align with the UN’s digital inclusion goals.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are welcomed from:
- Start-ups, SMEs, and large private companies
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and grassroots groups
- Research and academic institutions
- Public sector entities and international organisations
Eligible solutions must aim to enhance digital inclusion, address digital inequalities, or empower underserved communities.
Thematic Tracks for Submission
Applicants can submit proposals under one or more of the following five thematic areas:
- Inclusive Digital Innovation Skills & Entrepreneurial Talent Development
Solutions that build digital competencies for women, youth, and disadvantaged groups. - MSME Empowerment & Local Digital Innovation
Tools and services that connect MSMEs to digital markets, finance, and entrepreneurship ecosystems. - Enabling Policies & Regulatory Innovation
Innovative regulatory frameworks that support inclusive digital transformation. - Innovation Acceleration & Knowledge Sharing
Initiatives that promote technology transfer, innovation networks, and digital best practices. - Stable and Resilient Digital Supply Chains
Solutions that ensure inclusive and secure access to digital products and infrastructure globally.
Selection Criteria
Submissions—whether at idea stage, pilot phase, or fully scaled—will be judged by a diverse panel of experts from the UN system, academia, and the private sector.
Evaluation criteria include:
- Alignment with Objective 2 of the Global Digital Compact
- Relevance to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Degree of inclusivity and impact
- Potential for scalability and cross-regional adaptation
- Technological and non-technological feasibility
Key Dates & Timeline
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Call for Submissions Opens | 16 July 2025 |
| Submission Deadline | 18 August 2025 |
| Jury Review Period | 18 August – 10 September |
| Recognition at UNGA 80 | 22 – 26 September 2025 |
| Showcase at UNIDO General Conference | 24 – 27 November 2025 (Riyadh) |
Benefits of Participation
Successful applicants will receive:
- Global exposure at side events during the 80th UN General Assembly in New York and the UNIDO General Conference in Riyadh.
- Strategic matchmaking with UN and partner programmes.
- Inclusion in the Global Digital Compact implementation roadmap.
- Technical assistance and access to potential funding streams.
- Featured placement on the UNIDO Solutions Platform and within the AIM Global Community.
How to Apply
To submit your solution, visit the official Application Portal before 18 August 2025. For more comprehensive details on eligibility, benefits, and thematic tracks, read the full programme information here.
Final Thoughts
The UNIDO UNCTAD Global Call for Inclusive Digital Economy Solutions 2025 presents a powerful chance to make your digital innovation part of a global movement toward inclusion and resilience. If you or your organisation are developing transformative digital solutions, don’t miss this opportunity to gain recognition, resources, and support from global development leaders.
Need help with your proposal?
Contact grantsdatabase.org for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
