Sergey Korotkov: UNIDO Announces Launch of Two International Competitions for Russian Companies
The UNIDO International Centre for Industrial Cooperation in the Russian Federation invites Russian companies, startups, research centers, and entrepreneurs to participate in two prestigious international competitions in the field of sustainable development: the Global Call 2026 "Blue Economy" (organized jointly with the International Association of World Trade Centers) and the ONE World Sustainability Awards 2026.
The Financial and Business Association of Euro-Asian Cooperation (FBA EAC) serves as UNIDO's strategic partner in advancing these initiatives. As noted by Sergey Korotkov, Advisor to the President of FBA EAC and Senior Advisor to the Head of the UNIDO Office in Russia:
"Participation by Russian companies in competitions of this caliber opens additional avenues for international cooperation and access to global markets for sustainable technologies."
Competition 1: UNIDO Global Call 2026 "Blue Economy"
Organized by UNIDO in partnership with the International Association of World Trade Centers (WTCA), Global Call is UNIDO's flagship international initiative. Each year, it identifies and supports innovative solutions designed to address global challenges and advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 2026 edition focuses on scalable technologies and projects that promote sustainable industrial development and the preservation of marine ecosystems.
Key Focus Areas:
1. Sustainable Food Production from Aquatic Resources
Regenerative aquaculture, sustainable fisheries, innovative food technologies, and measures to reduce environmental impact.
2. Eco-Friendly Marine Technologies
Ocean and water resource remediation, marine ecosystem monitoring, pollution mitigation, and decarbonization technologies for the maritime sector.
3. Circular Blue Economy
Recycling of marine waste, resource reuse, eco-friendly materials, and sustainable production chains.
4. Development of Coastal Communities
Job creation, support for local entrepreneurship, inclusive economic growth, sustainable tourism, and socially oriented initiatives.
Eligibility:
Startups, companies, research centers, universities, young entrepreneurs, and innovators worldwide are encouraged to apply.
Benefits for Finalists:
– Opportunity to present projects to international experts and investors;
– Access to the global partner networks of UNIDO and WTCA;
– Mentoring and expert advisory support;
– International promotion of innovative solutions;
– Participation in the final Global Call 2026 international event.
Key Dates:
• Application deadline: June 19, 2026
• Award ceremony: October 1, 2026
How to Apply:
Applications are accepted via the official UNIDO-WTCA Global Call 2026 platform.
• Online application form: https://form.jotform.com/260293870262357
• Further details: https://unido.ru/news/global_call_unido_i_mezhdunarodnoi_associacii_vtc_2026/
Competition 2: ONE World Sustainability Awards 2026
The ONE World Sustainability Awards represent a global UNIDO initiative dedicated to advancing innovative solutions in sustainable industrial development. The Awards convene companies, startups, and sustainability leaders offering practical, scalable approaches to building a resilient and inclusive economy of the future.
Key Focus Areas:
1. Innovative Startups
Climate technologies, clean energy solutions, digital innovations, and sustainable production models.
2. Sustainable Supply Chains
Environmentally responsible manufacturing, carbon footprint reduction, supply chain transparency and traceability, and sustainable resource management.
3. Women in Industry
Support for women leaders and entrepreneurs, inclusive business practices, gender equality in industrial sectors, and initiatives with measurable social and environmental impact.
4. Outstanding Contribution
A special category recognizing exceptional achievements in advancing sustainable industrial development and promoting sustainability principles at the international level.
Eligibility:
Startups, companies, industrial enterprises, entrepreneurs, sustainability leaders, and representatives of innovative businesses worldwide may apply. Participation is free of charge.
Benefits for Finalists and Winners:
– International recognition and visibility;
– Opportunity to showcase projects on UNIDO's global platform;
– Access to international expert and investment networks;
– Global promotion of awarded solutions;
– Invitation to attend the ONE World Sustainability Awards 2026 ceremony.
Event Highlight:
The 2026 final ceremony will be held in Vienna, Austria, as part of the celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of UNIDO.
Key Dates:
• Application deadline: June 30, 2026
How to Apply:
Applications are accepted via the official ONE World Sustainability Awards 2026 platform.
• Online application form: https://www.unido.org/oneworld-sustainability-awards/apply
• Further details: https://unido.ru/news/unido_premija_one_world_v_oblasti_ustoichivogo_razvitija_2026/