Join the global search for change agents who are advancing the SDGs in their business from the bottom up.
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 USASDG 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 contactCaitlin McGinnis at caitlin@globalcompactusa.org for any inquiries. For additional information, visit https://unglobalcompact.org/sdgs/sdgpioneers/.
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Accelerators
In addition to events and webinars, Network USA runs a variety of accelerators to support member action in support of the Ten Principles and the achievement of the SDGs.
Network USA currently runs following accelerators:
Climate Ambition Accelerator: The CAA program equips companies with the knowledge and skills they need to accelerate progress towards setting science-based emissions reduction targets aligned with the 1.5℃ pathway, putting them on a path towards net-zero emissions by 2050.
Business & Human Rights Accelerator: The BHR Accelerator is a six-month program activating companies participating in the UN Global Compact across industries and regions. The objective is to help businesses swiftly move from commitment to action on human and labor rights by establishing an ongoing human rights due diligence process.
SDG Ambition: This accelerator challenges and supports companies in setting ambitious corporate targets and accelerating the integration of the 17 SDGs into core business management.
Target Gender Equality: This accelerator supports companies in setting and reaching ambitious corporate targets for women's representation and leadership, starting with the Board and Executive Management levels.
SDG Innovation Program: Our accelerator that teaches future business leaders and changemakers how to develop and drive innovative solutions through new technologies, initiatives, and business models and deliver on their company’s sustainability objectives.
SDG Pioneers: Our initiative to recognize exceptional leadership from individuals at participating organizations in support of the SDGs.
Peer Learning Groups
Peer Learning Groups create a safe space for companies to share their best practices and challenges on critical sustainability issues with like-minded professionals, while gaining access to industry leaders and unique networking opportunities. Through facilitated sessions, curated resources and group discussions, participants learn about the latest best practices in any given issue area in a trusted, regulated environment.
Peer Learning Groups in 2025 at Network USA will focus on three priority issue tracks — climate action, living wage, and corporate sustainability — with the goal of moving companies forward in taking ambitious action on these issues.
