New York, 21 September 2024 – The Summit of the Future is a critical opportunity, focusing on accelerating global commitments on implementing the objectives of the Global Digital Compact and contributing to closing the digital divide. This is why the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in collaboration with Google Cloud, the Permanent Mission of Ethiopia to the United Nations, and the International Coffee Organization (ICO), hosted the side event “Digital Future for All: Innovative Solutions for Digital Cooperation” to launch the UNIDO Solutions Platform. 

This high-profile gathering brought together global industry and governmental leaders, innovators, and youth to explore how innovative solutions, digital technologies, and multi-stakeholder collaboration contribute to the objectives of the Global Digital Compact, bridging the digital divide and accelerating sustainable industrialization. 

Launch of the UNIDO Solutions Platform 

The launch of the UNIDO Solutions Platform was a central highlight of the event. This innovative digital tool aims to showcase concrete effective solutions that contribute to sustainable industrialization, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The platform provides a collaborative space for governments, businesses, academia, and investors to work together, mobilize resources, and implement scalable solutions across various sectors. Fatou Haidara, Deputy to the Director General on behalf of the Director General of UNIDO, stated: 
"The Solutions Platform embodies UNIDO's commitment to 'Progress by Innovation.' It is a dynamic space where stakeholders can join forces to create transformative solutions for sustainable industrialization. By fostering partnerships and leveraging digital innovation, we can address global challenges such as climate action, sustainable supply chains, and inclusive economic growth." 

During the opening remarks H.E Mr. Tesfaye Yilma Sabo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Ethiopia to the United Nations, underscored the importance of digital cooperation in fostering sustainable development, stating, “through the integration of digital solutions and our unwavering commitment to sustainability, we are shaping a future where our coffee industry thrives, our environment flourishes, and our farmers prosper.” Mr. Stefano Gatti, Director General for Development Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, emphasized the need for public and private sector partnerships, and reaffirmed Italy's commitment to supporting sustainable industrialization. 

Joint Declaration between UNIDO and Google  

A major outcome of the event was the signing of a Joint Declaration between UNIDO and Google. This declaration solidifies the foundation of a strategic partnership aimed at providing digital solutions to support sustainable industrial development. The declaration emphasizes the shared commitment of both organizations to advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through technological innovation and fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors. 

Brewing a Common, Sustainable Future: A Joint Vision for Africa’s Coffee Value Chain 

Another highlight was the announcement of a pioneering lighthouse solution, focusing on the digital and sustainable transformation of Africa’s coffee value chain. This effort to “Brew a Common, Sustainable Future”, led by UNIDO, the International Coffee Organization, illycaffè SpA, Lavazza, Google, and NGIS, aims to digitally empower Africa's coffee sector for climate-resilient and sustainable growth.  

The shared vision seeks to position Africa as a global leader in eco-friendly and ethical coffee production, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, geospatial data, cloud solutions, and open-source platforms. This initiative will ensure transparency, traceability, and compliance with global regulations such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), setting a higher standard for sustainability in global coffee markets. 

The event underscored the pivotal role of youth in shaping a sustainable future, with speakers highlighting their essential contribution to advancing sustainable development and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During the closing ceremony, the Youth Solution Awards were presented, recognizing young innovators for their practical and inventive solutions. The winners received prizes as a gesture of appreciation for their commitment to creating a sustainable future. 

SDG Solution Hubs made clear, that solutions exist, and the digital future is not something we wait for—it is something we actively build together today. Together with our partners, we have shown how digital solutions such as AI, geospatial data, cannot just transform industries—they are transforming lives. From empowering farmers to safeguarding supply chains, and from complying with complex regulations to addressing urgent climate challenges, these technologies are paving the way towards a more sustainable and inclusive world.  

For more information, please contact:

solutions@unido.org 

Jason Slater, Chief Digital and Innovation Officer, UNIDO