Schedule of Events

Below is a list of all  UN Global Compact and Global Compact Network events happening during the high-level week of UNGA 80.

Thursday, September 18, 2025
9:00 AM
SDGs in Brazil
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

SDGs in Brazil is the largest corporate sustainability event held abroad by the UN Global Compact Network Brazil. It convenes hundreds of senior leaders for panels, discussions, and networking focused on environment, human rights, labor, and anti-corruption.

The event takes place ahead of Climate Week NYC and in the context of the UN General Assembly, when countries, heads of state, and global leaders gather in New York to address the world’s most pressing challenges.

Held at the United Nations Headquarters, SDGs in Brazil provides a platform for dialogue on the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Brazil and globally, sharing corporate benchmarks and insights from recognized experts.

SDGs in Brazil 2024

The 2024 edition, held on 19–20 September at UN Headquarters, featured 94 speakers and an audience of 800 participants. Key topics included Human Rights, Anti-Corruption, Environment, and the Amazon. The event generated a reach of 532 million, R$34.6 million in earned media, was covered in 356 articles, 8 TV channels, and had 25 accredited media professionals.

Speakers included Sanda Ojiambo, Executive Director, UN Global Compact; Georg Kell, Founder and former Executive Director, UN Global Compact; Christopher Podgorski, CEO, Scania; Rayssa Leal, Olympic skateboarder; Roberto Rossi, CEO, Schneider Electric; Lázaro Ramos, Brazilian actor, director, presenter, and writer; and Minister Luís Roberto Barroso, President of the Supreme Federal Court of Brazil, among others.

All participants joined a collective commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

This event is by invitation only, for more information please contact rsvp@pactoglobal.org.br.

Location:
Location: United Nations Headquarters
Sunday, September 21, 2025
8:00 AM
Unstoppable Africa
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The BIG Push: Africa’s Time to Shape the Markets Global disruptions present Africa with a critical opportunity to lead. With vast natural resources, a young population, and growing innovation, the continent is poised to shape its own economic future. Now is the time to invest in local value chains, empower entrepreneurs, and leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area to boost intra-African trade. This year’s Unstoppable Africa theme, The BIG Push, is a call to action—for Africa to lead in energy, trade, tech, and the creative economy.

Location:
Marriott Marquis
9:00 AM
Finding Equilibrium: Crafting Your Role & Career Pathway for Indonesia’s Economic Transformation
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Indonesia aims to achieve 8% economic growth by 2045, with one key pathway being the enhancement of value creation in natural resource management. To realize this, the country targets over USD 540 billion in investment by 2040, focusing on efficient and responsible resource use alongside industries that add value through innovation, processing, and sustainable practices. A robust policy framework that incentivizes sustainability, penalizes environmental harm, and fosters public-private partnerships is essential. Shifting from extractive models to restoring and enhancing the value of bio-based resources will help secure long-term prosperity while safeguarding natural heritage.

The transition to a nature-based economy also requires a new generation of skilled professionals who combine traditional expertise with innovative, sustainable approaches. This shift offers significant opportunities, with CELIOS estimating 19.4 million more jobs in the next decade than under a business-as-usual scenario. Workforce readiness is therefore critical.

In line with this vision, an interactive dialogue session will be held with Indonesian students in New York, focusing on ESG, sustainability, and green jobs. C-level executives will share how professional skills apply in corporate sustainability, while Young Innovators from Indonesia’s SDG Innovation program will present their projects, inspiring youth to engage in emerging green industries.

This event is by invitation only.  For more information, please contact raina.dewary@indonesiagcn.org

Location:
Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in New York
3:00 PM
UN Global Compact Network Caribbean Sustainable Development Forum (A Side Event to Unstoppable Africa 2025)
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

The Caribbean region, home to many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), remains on the frontline of the climate crisis experiencing severe weather events, rising sea levels, and economic volatility. Yet, amid these vulnerabilities, Caribbean governments and businesses are taking bold, innovative steps to build climate resilience and sustainable economies. This Side Event will explore how Caribbean can collaborate to foster cross-continental partnerships that address climate vulnerabilities and unlock new opportunities.

This event is by invitation only.  For more information, please contact kyana.bowen@unglobalcompact.org.

Location:
Marriott Marquis
6:00 PM
French Country Network Reception
Networking
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

For the second consecutive year, the UN Global Compact Network France will organise its special UNGA reception. This year, at the UNGC Hub, in the presence of Florent Menegaux, President of the Michelin Group and President of the UN Global Compact Network France.This reception will bring together representatives of the French diplomatic network, French and French-speaking companies and institutional stakeholders present in New York, representatives of the UN Global Compact, and will provide an opportunity for informal and friendly exchanges among members.For any additional information, please kindly contact Camille Bos (camille.bos@pactemondial.org).

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
Monday, September 22, 2025
8:00 AM
Unstoppable Africa
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The BIG Push: Africa’s Time to Shape the Markets Global disruptions present Africa with a critical opportunity to lead. With vast natural resources, a young population, and growing innovation, the continent is poised to shape its own economic future. Now is the time to invest in local value chains, empower entrepreneurs, and leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area to boost intra-African trade. This year’s Unstoppable Africa theme, The BIG Push, is a call to action—for Africa to lead in energy, trade, tech, and the creative economy.

Location:
Marriott Marquis
8:30 AM
Water Resilience Coalition CEO Circle
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

This high-level gathering will bring together global CEOs and executives to: - Unlock Water’s Business Advantage: Explore how water resilience drives ROI and competitive edge. - Connect with Visionary Leaders: Collaborate on bold solutions to the global water crisis. - Shape the 2030 Vision: Identify impactful pathways for corporate leadership. - Navigate the AI-Water Nexus: Understand the intersection of AI innovation and water stewardship.

This event is by invitation only.  For more information, please contact smorales@pacinst.org

Location:
Ease Hospitality, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York
9:00 AM
SDG Innovation Powerhouse: Catalyzing System Change
Panel + Workshop
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Ready to turn ideas into action for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? This dynamic session offers both inspiration and practical tools. First, hear from leaders across business, non-profits, the UN, academia, and finance as they share real-world cases and strategies for scaling impact. Then, get hands-on in our guided workshop. You'll map collaborators, pressure-test your own ideas, and build tangible action plans to implement within your organization. This isn't just theory; it's about creating impactful change you can take home. Selecting this session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
11:00 AM
Driving Responsible Supply Chains: From Compliance to Impact
Roundtable
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

This interactive roundtable session will explore how companies can drive meaningful impact across their supply chains through responsible sourcing, supplier engagement, and capacity-building. Featuring practical examples from businesses in the WENA and APAC regions, the session will provide a space for peer learning and open dialogue on key challenges such as supplier codes of conduct, auditing, and data collection. A variety of topics will be addressed—including living wages as one example—to showcase actionable strategies and cross-sector collaboration that can scale responsible supply chain practices. Participants will walk away with insights and inspiration to strengthen their own strategies. This session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
12:00 PM
Private Sector Forum
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM

This year’s Forum will bring together 50 influential leaders—including CEOs, investors, Heads of State and Government and senior UN officials—for a candid, forward-looking dialogue on how to scale up private capital for sustainable and inclusive development. At the heart of the conversation is the Sustainable Finance Roadmap, in development by the UN Global Compact at the request of the Secretary-General. The roadmap outlines clear, actionable strategies to mobilize investment for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), and focuses on key transitions in areas such as climate adaptation, food systems, and decent work. This event is invitation-only.

Location:
UN Headquarters
1:30 PM
Investing in Tomorrow: Sustainable Finance in Europe
Panel + Roundtable
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and tackling the climate crisis requires more than ambition — it requires action, backed by finance.This session brings together leaders from global financial institutions, the private sector, and development organizations to explore the future of sustainable finance.At its core is a question now echoing through boardrooms and policy meetings: How can innovative financing mechanisms unlock capital at scale to drive green and inclusive transitions? What to expect: A deep dive into blended finance, public-private partnerships, and other tools that help de-risk investments and attract private capital Practical solutions for emerging markets to access climate finance Real-world examples and success stories from Europe This session is available to Director, Head and C-Suite staff and members of EECA WENA regions. Session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
4:30 PM
Dilemmas Forum at the UN Global Compact Hub
Workshop
4:30 PM - 7:00 PM

The UN Global Compact Legal Council is convening its flagship invitation-only roundtable during UN High-Level Week — bringing together 60 top executives (CLOs, CFOs, CSOs, CMOs, and Public Affairs leaders) for a powerful, closed-door session on the strategic dilemmas shaping global business. This first-of-its-kind forum, held in partnership with the UN Global Compact, will foster cross-functional collaboration at the highest levels. Participants will engage in an immersive, scenario-based workshop. Through high-stakes hypothetical dilemmas and candid peer dialogue, this exclusive session will generate actionable insights to guide corporate decision-making in today’s complex environment — and help shape a more sustainable, resilient future. 

 

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
8:00 AM
UN Global Compact Leaders Summit
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Mobilizing what's next Join us at the 2025 Leaders Summit — where action meets inspiration. In an era defined by complexity and change, the 2025 Leaders Summit offers private sector leaders the clarity, tools, and networks needed to lead with purpose. This action-oriented gathering will deliver practical guidance, visionary keynotes, and cross-sector collaboration — all designed to help you stay aligned with the Ten Principles and advance bold, sustainable strategies. Join fellow leaders from business, government and civil society to explore how leadership rooted in resilience and innovation can drive long-term value for both people and planet.
Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
6:00 PM
Goal Getters: A Trivia Night for Sustainability Leaders
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

As part of NYC Climate Week, UN Global Compact Network USA will host Goal Getters: A Trivia Night for Sustainability Leaders. This casual evening is designed to bring together participants and partners from across our network for connection and a bit of friendly competition.

This pub trivia night offers a relaxed space for attendees to unwind, enjoy drinks and light fare, and join in a few rounds of themed trivia. Topics will include climate, sustainability, and nature, with a range of fun prizes for the top teams.

The evening is an opportunity to connect with fellow sustainability professionals and build community across Network USA participants, partners, and prospective companies. At the end of the night, we’ll share a few resources on how attendees can stay engaged in UNGC-USA’s climate programming.

Please note: The event location will be shared with approved guests.

This event is by invitation only.  Please request an invitation here.  

 

Location:
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
8:30 AM
From Actions to Perceptions: Understanding EU's Sustainability Agenda
Presentation + Panel
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Curious about how the EU's sustainability efforts are perceived by civil society? Join this high-level session featuring European Executive Directors from UN Global Compact Country Networks. We'll unveil key findings from a new study analyzing civil society's views on the EU's sustainable development actions. Following the presentation, a dynamic panel discussion with international organizations and leading companies will explore these insights further. Don't miss this opportunity to understand the impact and perception of the EU's sustainability agenda. Includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. ​Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
10:00 AM
SDG Investment Forum
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

This exclusive, invitation-only event convenes CFOs, institutional investors, and global leaders to explore how finance can drive innovation, manage risk, and create long-term value for both business and society. Through real-world case studies, high-level dialogues, and peer-to-peer exchanges, the Forum will showcase actionable strategies—ranging from green bonds and blended finance to measurable KPIs—that transform ESG commitments into competitive advantage.

Selecting this session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day.
 

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
3:00 PM
Making it Real: Practical Due Diligence with a Rights Holder Focus
Workshop
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

To deliver a meaningful impact on the 2030 Agenda and respond to the minimum expectations for responsible business conduct, companies should implement human rights due diligence (HRDD) with a clear focus on the people most affected by business activities. Using scenarios and role-plays, this immersive session will challenge participants to “make it real” and deepen their understanding of effective rightsholder engagement, exploring how to understand human rights risks through a rightsholder lens. Grounded in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the session will offer practical insights on how companies are operationalizing HRDD and highlight the importance of engaging meaningfully with affected stakeholders. Open to companies across all sectors and geographies, this workshop will inspire bold, principled action on human rights. ​Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
6:00 PM
Gathering of Spanish companies
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

On the occasion of the United Nations General Assembly, UN Global Compact Spain will host a cocktail reception for Spanish companies attending the UN Global Compact Week and the Permanent Mission of Spain to the United Nations. On Wednesday, September 24th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., we will hold this gathering at one of New York City's most iconic locations: the Chrysler Building (405 Lexington Ave, 47th floor). It will be a unique opportunity to visit one of the city’s architectural landmarks while networking with other companies, building relationships, and exchanging ideas in a relaxed and exclusive cocktail-style setting.

This event is by invitation only.  For further assistance, please contact rubencarricondo@pactomundial.org

 

Location:
Chrysler Building (405 Lexington Ave, 47th floor)
Thursday, September 25, 2025
9:00 AM
Building a Better Future: Business and Human Rights
Plenary + Roundtable
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

This plenary and interactive session offers a dynamic forum to explore current trends, challenges and opportunities in advancing responsible business for human rights. Featuring insights from the Human Rights Think Lab and practical case studies, the session will foster collaborative problem-solving through interactive break-out discussions. Participants will gain tangible takeaways, learn about valuable UN Global Compact resources and be encouraged to advance human rights due diligence in their organizations. This is an opportunity to connect business leaders, inspire action and share innovative approaches to responsible business conduct in an increasingly challenging world. Includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. ​Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
9:00 AM
UN Global Compact Network USA 2025 Annual Summit
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Over 200 senior leaders from participating companies of the UN Global Compact, local government, civil society, and the UN will come together at UN Global Compact Network USA's annual flagship event.

Hosted during the UN General Assembly, this event advocates for practical business action and partnerships that align with the Sustainable Development Goals within the American private sector.

This year's Annual Summit will feature high-level plenaries, networking opportunities, and invite-only roundtable sessions focused on the following four key themes:

This event is by invitation only.  Please click here to submit your expression of interest form.  

Location:
601 Lexington Avenue, New York City
10:30 AM
Asia & Oceania Leadership Roundtable – Strategy, Policy & Impact
Roundtable
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Discover how sustainability is evolving from a compliance obligation into a strategic imperative and a cornerstone of trust — especially in fast-growing and emerging Asian markets like Bangladesh, Vietnam, Indonesia, and beyond. Gain fresh insights into the expanding role of business leaders — from CEOs to Chief Sustainability Officers — as they navigate rising expectations and embed sustainability at the heart of corporate strategy. Explore how cross-sector collaboration is not only reshaping business leadership but also playing a vital role in building public trust in an increasingly complex global landscape. This session is available to C-Suite staff and members of the APAC region. Selecting this session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. ​Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
12:00 PM
Central Asia's New Silk Road to Sustainability
Panel
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

This high-level panel will showcase Central Asia’s emerging role as a strategic bridge between East and West, building on the legacy of the Silk Road to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Business leaders, policymakers, and investors from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan will share concrete initiatives in green finance, renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and inclusive trade. Attendees will gain insights into regional investment opportunities, cross-border collaboration, and innovative public-private partnerships driving sustainable growth. Open to all participants, the session offers a rare opportunity to connect with the visionaries shaping Central Asia’s sustainable future.

Selecting this session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
1:00 PM
Corporate Strategies for Climate Ambition
Workshop
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Selecting this session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
2:00 PM
Africa Beyond Aid: Rethinking Value Chains, Trade, and Investment for Sustainable Development
Roundtable
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Africa's transforming from aid-dependent to investment-led, trade-driven growth. This is your invitation to join the continent's dynamic future. Explore the immense potential within regional value chains and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Discover how sustainable business models are creating unprecedented private sector opportunities, even amid global uncertainty. Selecting this session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. This insightful session will equip you with crucial knowledge on: - Responsible investment for profit and purpose. - Fostering inclusive growth. - The pivotal role of African businesses in shaping a sustainable future. Don't miss this chance to understand and contribute to Africa's remarkable journey. Selecting this session includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
4:00 PM
High-Level Forum on Sustainable Procurement
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

The High-Level Forum on Sustainable Procurement convenes government Ministers, Chief Procurement Officers and Chief Executive Officers from across sectors and regions to initiate an annual public–private dialogue on sustainable procurement as a catalyst for inclusive, secure and competitive supply chains that support sustainable economic growth and development. Members of the newly launched Coalition for Sustainable Procurement, a global network of companies committed to advancing resilient supply chains by embedding sustainability into procurement practices, will share insights on opportunities for key support and partnerships from the public sector to enable the private sector in driving sustainable procurement. This event will foster discussions on effective practices, challenges and opportunities for improvement and needed collaboration to strengthen sustainable procurement and enable more responsible supply chains.

This event is by invitation only.  For m ore information, please contact supplychainsandsmes@unglobalcompact.org

 

Location:
Chrysler Building
Friday, September 26, 2025
8:30 AM
The Future of Business Education: A Turning Point for Leadership and Society
Panel
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Business and management education must rise to meet the challenges of our time—from climate breakdown to inequality to eroding trust in institutions. This high-level UNGA event brings together deans, students, UN leaders, and advocates to ask: Are we preparing future leaders to lead responsibly? Featuring the premiere of a powerful short film, live voices from across sectors, and insights from pioneering institutions, the event marks a pivotal moment to reimagine business education. Hosted by PRME, this is a call to raise the bar—and to build a new standard for leadership grounded in sustainability, equity, and long-term impact. Includes access to the UN Global Compact Hub for the entire day. ​Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub
9:30 AM
Staying the Course: Corporate Leadership on Inclusion Under Pressure
Workshop
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Progress on gender equality and non-discrimination is facing growing challenges. As institutional and societal shifts reinforce long-standing barriers to the full realization of equal rights for women and marginalized groups, companies have an opportunity to demonstrate leadership by ensuring inclusion and gender equality remain core strategic priorities. The private sector has the responsibility and the influence to not just be observers but active defenders of gender equality.
This confidential session offers a trusted forum for business leaders to examine emerging and long-standing challenges, navigate backlash, and explore opportunities to collaboratively advance progress.


Drawing upon the frameworks established by the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs), alongside expert input from leading practitioners, participants will explore strategies and practical steps to safeguard gender equality and inclusion and advance business resilience in an increasingly complex global environment.

Register for the UN Global Compact Hub to attend this event.

Location:
UN Global Compact Hub

For a full listing of events happening in New York during UNGA, please visit https://globalgoalsweek.org/.