About the Accelerator Programme
A changing world needs a United Nations that adapts just as fast. Innovation is key to this, ensuring that we build a more agile, future-ready United Nations capable of responding to accelerating global crises.
The UN Global Pulse Accelerator Programme is an initiative for transformation across the United Nations. Launched in 2023, the Accelerator is the only United Nations system-wide initiative dedicated to supporting innovation teams across UN entities and turning promising innovative ideas into real-world impact at scale, ensuring that exceptional UN-led pilots reach more communities through adaptable delivery models and future-fit strategies.
Developing sustainable and scalable models for innovative solutions amid a continuously changing landscape is a challenging journey. To thrive, promising pilots must be cultivated within adaptable ecosystems, grounded in scalable, responsible technology, sustainable financing models, innovative partnerships and cutting-edge skills. The UN Global Pulse Accelerator responds to these ever-evolving needs through an innovative programme that offers an evidence-based curriculum, enabling UN-led teams to undertake a structured, multidisciplinary approach to scaling for impact.
The overarching goal of the programme is to equip UN teams with robust strategies, positioning them to successfully scale their innovative solutions in the service of people, planet and future generations.
Since its inception, the Accelerator Programme has supported 31 teams from 14 different UN entities across four cohorts. It has awarded 8 Scale Catalyst Grants and tailored mentoring for teams from FAO, OHCHR, UNFPA, WFP and WHO to support the implementation of their scale strategies.
Today, many of these initiatives have become integral components of country-level programming, digital service delivery, anticipatory action frameworks and human rights monitoring systems, contributing to measurable gains in efficiency and impact.
Key Programme Numbers
Meet the Accelerator Programme Cohorts
Cohort 4
The fourth cohort was launched in May 2026. This cohort received a record-breaking 185 eligible applications from 45 UN entities working across 194 countries. 9 UN teams were selected for this cohort. Here’s a snapshot of the selected teams:
Cohort 3
The third cohort was launched in August 2026. The cohort received 153 eligible applications from 29 UN entities working across 155 countries. 8 UN teams were selected for this cohort. Here’s a snapshot of the selected teams:
Cohort 2
The second cohort was launched in November 2024. For this cohort, the programme received 94 applications from 23 UN entities. 7 UN teams were selected for this cohort. Here’s a snapshot of the selected teams:
Cohort 1
The first cohort was launched in February 2024. This cohort received 70 applications across 18 UN entities. 7 UN teams were selected for this cohort. Here’s a snapshot of the selected teams:
Frequently Asked Questions
WHO IS THE UN GLOBAL PULSE ACCELERATOR FOR?
The Accelerator is open to all UN teams with innovative, pilot-tested solutions that show evidence of positive outcomes and are ready to scale their impact.
Note! Projects run solely by non-UN entities, or those only endorsed, branded, or funded by the UN, will not be considered.
WHAT QUALIFIES AS AN INNOVATIVE, PILOT-TESTED SOLUTION?
To qualify, projects must be led or co-led by a UN entity and it must have been piloted at least once in a real-world setting. This means the solution has gone beyond a concept or prototype and has been tested in practice, with its effectiveness and feasibility assessed. Additionally, a solution must demonstrate tangible impact for people and the planet by creating or adapting a product, service, process, or system that adds new value, whether by addressing an existing problem, seizing an opportunity, or responding to an emerging need. The innovation can be entirely new or new in its specific context. Applicants must provide concrete evidence of these outcomes.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM THE ACCELERATOR?
Selected teams will join an immersive workshop where they will craft future-fit strategies to scale their innovative solutions. All participants will be guided by a pool of multidisciplinary experts, connect with key partners across public and private innovation ecosystems, and leave with a tailored scale strategy, including a long-term vision, short-term milestones, and a clear view of the strengths and gaps to address.
UN teams awarded Scale Catalyst Grants will also receive additional support following the workshop, including tailored technical support and strategic mentoring from UN Global Pulse to help implement their scale strategy.
CAN I SUPPORT AS A PARTNER OR CONSULTING EXPERT FOR THE PROGRAMME?
UN Global Pulse welcomes a wide range of partnerships and collaborations to support current and future cohorts of the Accelerator Programme. Partners can contribute in many ways, from offering resources to sharing knowledge and technical expertise. If you’re interested in exploring these opportunities with us, please contact the Partnerships Team to learn more about supporting our programmes and projects.
Become a partner
The UN Global Pulse Accelerator Programme is currently generously funded by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, reflecting Finland’s long-standing commitment to the United Nations and its leadership in advancing innovation for sustainable development.
Are you interested in playing a key role in promoting the responsible use of innovation across UN operations, through an initiative that has a strong emphasis on people-centred design, data, digital tools and artificial intelligence? Learn more about partnering with us or reach out directly to our team at partnerships@ungobalpulse.org.
