The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched the SDG Blockchain Accelerator, harnessing blockchain technology to develop, pilot, and scale innovative solutions to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This initiative is strategically led by UNDP in collaboration with the Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) and co-implemented by the UNDP AltFinLab, BGA’s Board of Advisors, and EMURGO Labs. BGA and Project Catalyst Fund13 provide funding support.
The SDG Blockchain Accelerator leverages UNDP’s Blockchain Academy, UNIN Blockchain Community of Practice, with affiliations to BGA’s Incubation Program, and EMURGO Labs’ technical expertise, equipping UNDP employees with the knowledge and tools needed to integrate blockchain solutions into real-world development challenges.
“Through the partnership between UNDP, Blockchain for Good Alliance, and EMURGO Labs, we are thrilled to launch an accelerator program that brings together a diverse network of stakeholders—from development experts, project leaders, and ecosystem partners to blockchain developers and mentors. By leveraging expert networks, we ensure that UNDP personnel gain access to the technical guidance and resources they need to effectively implement and scale blockchain solutions for sustainable development,” said Teodor Petricevic, UNDP Accelerator Lead.
The accelerator will:
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Enhance Capacity Building: Equip early-stage blockchain projects with technical expertise and mentorship.
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Develop Scalable Solutions: Implement pilot projects that showcase blockchain’s real-world applications in development sectors.
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Foster Ecosystem Growth: Promote cross-chain collaboration and enhance innovation across the broader blockchain ecosystem.
“This partnership with UNDP is a testament to our vision of leveraging blockchain to solve real-world challenges and drive sustainable progress,” said Ahmed M. Amer, CEO of EMURGO Labs. “By combining Cardano’s powerful infrastructure with UNDP’s global expertise, we aim to pioneer solutions that not only advance blockchain adoption but also contribute meaningfully to the SDGs.”
The SDG Blockchain Accelerator is a multi-year program designed to onboard, support, and potentially fund two cohorts per year, each running for five months. The program will develop tailored curricula and educational modules, provide mentorship to project teams in implementing blockchain-based solutions, and document and share project outcomes through open-source resources.
In the first cohort in 2025, the accelerator will amplify Cardano’s visibility by demonstrating its versatility in addressing SDG-focused challenges. The initiative’s interoperable and open-source framework will also encourage collaboration across blockchain platforms, driving broader ecosystem adoption. In the second iteration (starting in September 2025), the accelerator will amplify Cardano and other blockchain potential in UNDP development initiatives.
The program aims to achieve several key impacts. Firstly, it aims to deliver up to 40 blockchain-based solutions that directly address critical SDG goals. It also plans to establish a comprehensive resource library that serves as a valuable guide for future blockchain initiatives. Finally, the program will enhance the capacity of both the UNDP network and external stakeholders to effectively develop and implement blockchain applications.
The open call for UNDP challenges is out: https://innovation.eurasia.undp.org/sdg-blockchain-accelerator-call-for-challenges/
The open call for blockchain solutions is out: https://innovation.eurasia.undp.org/sdg-blockchain-accelerator-call-for-blockchain-solutions/
“At the Blockchain for Good Alliance, we believe blockchain’s true potential lies in its power to drive inclusive and real-world impact. This strategic partnership with the UNDP reflects our commitment to supporting a major global programme that enhances social and public good. By uniting our initiatives and expertise with the UNDP’s mission, BGA is spearheading new pathways for blockchain to serve as a catalyst for sustainable progress through this collaboration,” said Helen Liu, Founder of the Blockchain for Good Alliance.
This collaboration between UNDP, Blockchain for Good Alliance, and EMURGO Labs underscores blockchain’s transformative potential in sustainable development. The SDG Blockchain Accelerator invites partners, innovators, and participants to join transformative efforts to address global challenges using blockchain.
For more information, please contact:
Hajdana Imrovic
UNDP AltFinLab
Communication and Crowdfunding Analyst
hajdana.imrovic@undp.org