The SDG Innovation Award recognises solutions and projects that make concrete contributions to the implementation of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The international competition will take place for the fifth consecutive year in 2026. The deadline for applications is 30 September; startups are particularly encouraged to apply.
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July 15, 2026
The SDG Innovation Award 2026 is looking for sustainable startups
The winners of the SDG Innovation Award 2025 © Senat der Wirtschaft Deutschland / Tobias Tschepe
Three categories for the SDG Innovation Award
The SDG Innovation Award is a joint initiative of the Senate of Economy Germany and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The aim of the award is to raise the profile and awareness of the SDGs within business and society, and to highlight role models, pioneers and examples of best practice. The award seeks trailblazers who are putting sustainable development into practice. It is presented in three categories:
Businesses: e.g. innovative solutions, sustainable supply chains, technological developments, technology transfer – particularly newcomers and startups
Cities, municipalities & districts: strategies and projects for sustainable urban and local development
Youth & education: projects, programmes and initiatives in the education sector with a clear focus on the SDGs
In 2025, entries from 35 countries and five continents underlined the international significance of the award and the global commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the 2030 Agenda. Projects and initiatives from China, Sri Lanka, South Korea, India, Togo, Kenya, Indonesia, Portugal, Belgium, Switzerland and Germany were nominated for the award. The SDG Innovation Awards ceremony will take place this year on 5 December in Munich. Dr Gerd Müller, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), will present the awards.
