Applications for the 2024 SDG Pioneer program are now open!
Each year, we celebrate the remarkable efforts of business professionals who are driving positive change by advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and embodying the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. These individuals, known as SDG Pioneers, play a crucial role in inspiring action and showcasing the power of business to create a sustainable future for all.
As part of the 2024 UN Global Compact SDG Pioneers program, UN Global Compact Network USA is searching for individuals who exemplify dedication, innovation, and leadership in advancing the SDGs.
The UN Global Compact Network USA will award two 2024 Global Compact Network USA SDG Pioneers this year. One to represent Small & Medium-sized enterprises (<250 employees), and one to represent Large National & Multi-National Companies. Please note that companies must have submitted at least 1 CoP and be a signatory since October 1, 2023 to be eligible for this opportunity. The selected individuals will then have the opportunity to participate in the final search of Global SDG Pioneers and to be recognized during the 2024 UN General Assembly in September in New York.
Apply now before May 15, 2024 and please contact Caitlin McGinnis at caitlin@globalcompactusa.org for any inquiries. For additional information, visit https://unglobalcompact.org/sdgs/sdgpioneers/.
We are excited to introduce a new multi-session peer learning group designed to help companies participating in the UN Global Compact Network USA take actionable steps toward implementing living wages.
This peer learning group will provide companies with practical guidance on bridging wage gaps, aligning with international labor standards, and supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Network USA will collaborate with leading figures within the Living Wage space for the US to deliver this program.
Session 1: Understanding Living Wage (April 9, 2025)
This session explores the global and U.S. perspectives on living wages. Participants will examine key regulations addressing working poverty and discover the critical differences between living wages and minimum wages. The discussion will highlight why living wages represent a universal human right, transcending financial benchmarks.
Session 2: Setting Living Wage Goals (May 14, 2025)
This session will teach participants to calculate wage gaps against living wage benchmarks and highlight the importance of social dialogue in addressing them. Attendees will explore ways to set measurable targets to ensure living wages by 2030 and learn about the impact on poverty and inequality. The session includes guidance on using the UN Global Compact Living Wage Analysis Tool to identify gaps, opportunities, and solutions for implementation across operations and supply chains.
Session 3: Regulation, Reporting & Transparency (June 25, 2025)
This session focuses on leveraging reporting as a strategic tool to adjust living wage goals and targets. Participants will learn how transparency in reporting can drive progress and integrate due diligence into living wage initiatives. The discussion will cover the current and evolving regulatory landscape related to living wages, highlighting the reporting requirements of the Forward Faster living wage targets developed through the UNGC Think Lab.
Session 4: Stakeholder Engagement (August 6, 2025)
In this final session, participants will explore strategies for engaging with peers, governments, workers' organizations, and civil society to remove barriers to living wages. The session will emphasize the role of businesses in advocating for policy changes, and participants will gain insights into how consumers, investors, and NGOs can support and amplify their living wage initiatives, fostering collective action and sustainable change.
Applications will open in February 2025.
Please note that admissions are granted on a first-come, first-serve basis, and applications will close as soon as spots are filled, so we encourage companies to apply early.
