United Nations Global Compact SDG Pioneers 2024

We are thrilled to embark on another journey to identify twelve SDG Pioneers from participating companies. These pioneers, regardless of their role, are setting ambitious SDG targets, expanding their impact, and championing a principles-based approach within their companies.

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About 2024 SDG Pioneers

Opportunity Details

Each year, we celebrate the remarkable efforts of business professionals who are driving positive change by advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and embodying the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. These individuals, known as SDG Pioneers, play a crucial role in inspiring action and showcasing the power of business to create a sustainable future for all.

In 2024, we are thrilled to embark on another journey to identify twelve SDG Pioneers from participating companies. These pioneers, regardless of their role, are setting ambitious SDG targets, expanding their impact, and championing a principles-based approach within their companies.

Through a rigorous selection process comprising both Local and Global Rounds, we will recognize individuals who exemplify dedication, innovation, and leadership in advancing the SDGs. 

Join us in celebrating these champions of sustainability and learn how you can be part of the movement towards a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable world.

Benefits of 2024 SDG Pioneers

Our Networks spanning all continents will be hosting country-level SDG Pioneers campaigns to identify business leaders who will then be contenders for the global round to be recognized in September 2024.

As part of the UN Global Compact SDG Pioneers programme, Global Compact Networks spanning all continents launched a national search for professionals who are committed to achieving the Global Goals.

Interested candidates from companies headquartered in any of the countries listed above must submit their applications through the respective Local Network. 

The winner of each country’s Local Round will receive the title “2024 Global Compact Network [Country] SDG Pioneer”.

The UN Global Compact will recognize 12 Global SDG Pioneers under two award categories: 1) Large National and Multinational companies and 2) SMEs*.

In addition to this, the UN Global Compact will recognize Global SDG Pioneers under 6 categories representing the regions where we operate: Western Europe and North America, Latin America and Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia-Oceania.

*SMEs are considered businesses with 10-250 employees while micro-enterprises would be businesses with 1-9 employees.

2024 SDG Pioneers Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must come from UN Global Compact participating companies with an “Active” status.

Companies must have joined the UN Global Compact prior to 1 October 2023.

To maintain Active status, companies must submit their Communication on Progress (CoP) within the reporting time frame of 1 April to 31 July. Subsidiaries can participate if their parent company meets this obligation. To avoid any disruption to your Pioneers application process, companies are strongly encouraged to submit their CoP by 1 June 2024. Failure to report by 31 July will disqualify a Pioneers application. A change in CoP status subsequent to being recognized as a Local and/or Global SDG Pioneer may result in the loss of consideration for the global SDG Pioneer title.

Application Date and Process

Campaign Launch: April 3, 2024

Submission Period: April 3, 2024 - May 17, 2024

Local SDG Pioneers Announcement: July 1, 2024

Global Round Review and Selection: May 17, 2024 - August 2024

Announcement of Global Winners and Recognition at the 2024 Leaders Summit: Date Sep 24, 2024

Apply Now:


Are you an individual who actively drives initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within your company?

Do you strive to make a positive impact and promote sustainability in your work?

Are you committed to embodying the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact?

Apply Now

Nominate Someone


Do you know a colleague or peer who demonstrates exceptional dedication to advancing the SDGs?

Have you witnessed someone in your company setting ambitious SDG targets and driving meaningful change?

Are you aware of individuals who embody the principles of sustainability and corporate responsibility?

Nominate Now

Application Deadline

17 May, 2024

Scholarship Application Portal

View details of 2024 SDG Pioneers

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