6 May 2026 - This month, young innovators, scientists, world-leading experts and entrepreneurs are coming together at the annual STI Forum with one purpose – to leverage their knowledge and solutions to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Here are 7 things you should know about this annual event and efforts to innovate for a sustainable future.
1. A global hub for science and solutions
The annual Multistakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for the SDGs (STI Forum), under the UN’s Technology Facilitation Mechanism (TFM), brings together governments, scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs to accelerate progress on the SDGs through collaboration and shared knowledge.
2. Thousands of voices are shaping the future
Each year, the STI Forum convenes thousands of stakeholders - from young innovators to world-leading experts - many engaging with the UN for the first time, creating a uniquely inclusive global science-policy space.
3. 950+ innovations from around the world
Through an open call, 950+ solutions for sustainable development were submitted this year, with strong participation from developing countries, highlighting the global momentum behind grassroots innovation.
4. Breakthroughs are becoming more accessible
New technologies are transforming access. Solar systems are for example up to 80 per cent lighter and water-monitoring tools up to 80 per cent cheaper, which are expanding solutions to underserved communities.
5. Innovation is solving everyday challenges
From biodegradable materials that help crops survive drought to circular solutions that turn waste into resources, practical innovations are delivering real-world impact across sectors.
6. A space to tackle emerging technologies
The STI Forum enables open discussions on rapidly evolving fields like AI and biotechnology. These are critical areas for SDG progress but raise complex governance, equity and ethical questions.
7. Partnerships that go beyond the Forum
The Forum doesn’t just discuss ideas. It helps launch collaborations, inform global policy processes, and feed directly into the High-level Political Forum on sustainable development.
UN DESA’s Division for Sustainable Development Goals is organizing the STI Forum and related events in May 2026, in close collaboration with the 10-Member-Group of High-level Representatives, and the 51 UN entities of the interagency task team IATT. Learn more about the efforts here.