2026 STI Forum: A Fully Funded Global Platform for Science, Technology And Innovation In Support Of The SDGs
The 11th Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (STI Forum 2026) is one of the most important global events convened under the United Nations Technology Facilitation Mechanism (TFM). Set for 6–7 May 2026 at United Nations Headquarters in New York, this forum brings together policymakers, scientists, innovators, private sector actors, civil society, and development partners to advance science, technology and innovation (STI) as catalysts for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This fully funded international platform is designed to accelerate progress through transformative, equitable and coordinated STI solutions that support a sustainable future for all. It highlights the intersections between cutting-edge science and development challenges from clean water and sanitation to sustainable cities and partnerships that are central to global well-being and prosperity.
A Global Forum with Purpose and Impact
The STI Forum serves as the flagship annual gathering of the United Nations’ multi-stakeholder community focused on STI for the SDGs. Over the past decade, it has cemented its role as a space where science, policy and innovation converge to produce actionable insights and forge partnerships that tackle complex global problems.
Rooted in the TFM a mechanism established in line with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development the Forum functions as a hub for sharing experiences, best practices, and policy recommendations. It draws participants from government, the UN system, the scientific community, academia, civil society and the private sector.
At its core, the Forum highlights how scientific advances and technological innovation can bridge gaps in development, empower communities and accelerate progress on the ambitious SDGs. Previously showcased innovations include AI-driven tools for healthcare and agriculture, sustainable materials solutions, and digital platforms that enhance access to services in underserved areas.
2026 Theme: Transformative, Equitable, Coordinated STI
The official theme for STI Forum 2026 is:
“Transformative, equitable and coordinated science, technology and innovation for the 2030 Agenda and a sustainable future for all.”
This theme emphasizes three key principles:
- Transformative: STI must deliver breakthrough solutions that can reshape systems and enhance development impact.
- Equitable: Access to scientific knowledge and technological tools must be inclusive, especially for underserved populations, women, youth and innovators from developing countries.
- Coordinated: Collaboration across sectors, regions and disciplines is essential to scale solutions and ensure sustainability.
These principles align with the SDGs being reviewed at the 2026 UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Open Call for Innovations: Spotlight on Emerging Solutions
A major highlight of the STI Forum is the Call for Innovations, which invites young innovators, scientists, entrepreneurs and early-stage solution developers to submit breakthrough technologies and approaches that can propel progress on SDGs. These innovations are expected to demonstrate measurable impact, scalability and relevance to priority SDG challenges particularly in low-resource and underserved settings.
The Call for Innovations (deadline: 18 January 2026) encourages participation from women, youth and Indigenous innovators, reflecting the Forum’s commitment to inclusion and diversity. Selected innovations benefit from global exposure, connecting creators with policymakers, funders, industry partners and development organizations.
Depending on resources, innovators may also have the opportunity to participate in person at the United Nations or engage through virtual capacity-building programmes designed to enhance communication of impact, commercialization strategy and other critical skills.
Why the STI Forum Matters for Global Development
The STI Forum plays a critical role in the UN’s SDG implementation agenda:
- It bridges science and policy, ensuring that evidence-based innovations inform decision-making at the highest levels.
- It accelerates multi-stakeholder partnerships, creating space for collaboration among governments, private sector entities, researchers, NGOs and communities.
- It champions inclusive innovation, aiming to dismantle barriers such as digital divides and inequitable access to technology.
- It spotlights emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, digital tools, biotechnology and clean energy solutions that have the capacity to deliver sustainable impact.
By continually focusing on equitable access and broad participation, the STI Forum ensures that innovation is not only cutting-edge but also relevant and accessible to those who stand to benefit the most.
How to Engage and Participate
Participation in the STI Forum is open to a wide range of stakeholders. In addition to submitting innovations for the Call for Innovations, interested parties can join panel discussions, networking sessions, side events, workshops and exhibitions. While logistical details may evolve as the event approaches, hybrid participation options including virtual engagement help widen access for global audiences.
In a world confronted with overlapping crises from climate change to inequality and health disparities the STI Forum underscores the urgency of harnessing science and technology for sustainable development. As we advance toward 2030, initiatives like this forum will continue to shape how societies innovate, collaborate and drive impact at scale.
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