Written by Applications are now open for the UN Global Pulse Scale Accelerator Programme 2026, a global opportunity designed to support the scaling of high-impact, data-driven and technology-enabled innovations that have emerged from UN-led pilots or aligned initiatives.
The programme targets solutions that have already demonstrated strong potential to deliver meaningful outcomes for people and communities and are ready to move from pilot phase to broader implementation and scale.
About the UN Global Pulse Scale Accelerator
The UN Global Pulse Scale Accelerator Programme is an intensive support initiative aimed at helping innovators strengthen, refine, and expand solutions that address complex social, economic, and humanitarian challenges. The programme focuses on scaling innovations that align with the United Nations’ mission, particularly those leveraging data, digital tools, and emerging technologies for public good.
Through targeted funding, technical support, and strategic guidance, the accelerator helps innovators transition from promising pilots to sustainable, scalable solutions with real-world impact.
Why This Matters
Many impactful innovations struggle to scale beyond pilot stages due to limited funding, weak institutional linkages, or insufficient technical support. The UN Global Pulse Scale Accelerator addresses this gap by connecting innovators to the UN system, providing catalytic funding, and equipping teams with the tools needed to scale responsibly and sustainably.
By supporting proven solutions, the programme helps accelerate progress toward inclusive development, resilience, and data-informed decision-making across sectors.
What Selected Innovators Receive
- Participants in the 2026 cohort will benefit from access to a catalyst grant of up to USD 60,000, structured scaling and technical support from UN Global Pulse and partners, and participation in a fully funded in-person workshop in Finland.
- The programme also offers visibility within the UN innovation ecosystem and opportunities to build strategic partnerships for long-term growth.
Who Should Apply
- The programme is open to innovators, organisations, and teams that have developed impact-driven solutions emerging from UN-led pilots or closely aligned initiatives.
- Solutions should demonstrate clear potential for scale, measurable impact, and alignment with UN development priorities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the full programme guidelines and submit their applications through the official UN Global Pulse platform: https://www.unglobalpulse.org/project/un-global-pulse-scale-accelerator/