The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Network (ITP Network) has been issuing the Global Call since 2020 to address critical global challenges such as climate change, post-pandemic economic reconstruction, and the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Over the past three years, this flagship event has engaged over 2,000 participants from 108 countries, aiming to drive a green economic rebound and sustainable industrial growth through global technological innovation and collaboration.

Initiated by ITPO Beijing, the Global Call 2023 focused on clean and smart energy, addressing the urgent need for renewable energy and efficiency to meet rising energy demands while mitigating climate change. The event attracted over 300 teams from more than 60 countries, with 88% of participants hailing from developing nations. The goal is to identify scalable solutions in green hydrogen, energy efficiency, and clean energy innovation.

For the first time, the launching ceremony took place at UNIDO headquarters in Vienna in June 2023. Director-General Gerd Müller emphasized the critical importance of affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, as outlined in SDG 7. The event was supported by global partners, with jury members from esteemed institutions ensuring a rigorous and fair review process.

On November 6, 2023, the award ceremony was held during the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, where 40 awards were announced. The event featured roadshow presentations, and the winners were invited to prestigious international events such as the CIIE and the China International Fair for Investment & Trade (CIFIT). They will also have opportunities for long-term exhibitions and collaborations with local industrial parks.

Winners joined the UNIDO Fourth Industrial Revolution Accelerator (Hangzhou), gaining access to project roadshows, training, and showcasing opportunities to enhance international cooperation. They have also been invited to join the delegation visiting Africa and to attend the Winners joined the UNIDO Fourth Industrial Revolution Accelerator (Hangzhou), gaining access to project roadshows, training, and showcasing opportunities to enhance international cooperation. They have also been invited to join the delegation visiting Africa and to attend the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly.

To advance sustainable development practices, the event engaged a third-party organization to assess and neutralize its carbon footprint, achieving full carbon neutrality for Global Call 2023.

For more information and the list of winners, please see the following link: Global Call 2023 Brochure