Entrepreneurs and business leaders are invited to participate in the United Nations Global Compact SDG Pioneers 2024 program. This annual program celebrates the contributions of professionals which drives positive change by advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and representing the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. These individuals, known as SDG Pioneers, are instrumental in inspiring action and demonstrating the potential of business to create a sustainable future.
United Nations Global Compact SDG Pioneers Program
The program aims to identify twelve SDG Pioneers from participating companies. These pioneers, irrespective of their role, are setting ambitious SDG targets, expanding their impact, and promoting a principles-based approach within their organizations. The selection process involves both Local and Global Rounds, recognizing individuals who demonstrate dedication, innovation, and leadership in advancing the SDGs.
The UN Global Compact will honor 12 Global SDG Pioneers under two award categories: Large National and Multinational companies, and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, Global SDG Pioneers will be recognized under 6 regional categories: Western Europe and North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Oceania.
Benefits of the United Nations Global Compact SDG Pioneers Program
- The winners of each country’s Local Round will be be given the title”2024 Global Compact Network [Country] SDG Pioneer.”
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, you:
- Must belong to UN Global Compact participating companies with an “Active” status.
- Companies must have joined the UN Global Compact before October 1, 2023.
- Companies must submit their Communication on Progress (COP) within the reporting timeframe. This is from April 1 to July 31 to maintain Active status. Subsidiaries are eligible to participate if their parent company meets this obligation. It’s recommended to submit the COP by June 1, 2024, to avoid disqualification from the Pioneers application. Failure to report by July 31 will result in disqualification.
- Changes in COP status after being known as a Local and/or Global SDG Pioneer is likely to affect consideration for the global SDG Pioneer title.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the program is May 17, 2024.
How to Apply
You can apply for the program if you are eligible but if you are not eligible, you can nominate someone who is eligible. Click here to nominate someone or here to apply. If you need further information about the porgram, visit the SDG Pioneers website.