Global Accelerator Taps Blockchain to Advance UN SDGs
The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and EMURGO Labs, has introduced a new global initiative titled the SDG Blockchain Accelerator.
The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and EMURGO Labs, has introduced a new global initiative titled the SDG Blockchain Accelerator. Designed to advance blockchain-driven innovations aimed at addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this multi-year effort seeks to equip development practitioners with the technical tools, knowledge, and strategic support needed to implement real-world solutions that tackle economic and social challenges.
The initiative was developed to bolster blockchain adoption among UNDP teams and their partners through a structured program that fosters capacity building, solution development, and ecosystem growth. Utilizing the Cardano blockchain and drawing from EMURGO Labs’ technical capabilities, the program aims to deliver up to 40 decentralized applications tailored to meet SDG benchmarks. Alongside solution development, the program plans to establish an open-source repository and foster cross-chain collaboration to maximize blockchain’s potential in the development sector.
Structured Global Engagement and Expert-Led Mentorship
Each year, the accelerator will host two cohorts, with each session spanning four months. Participants will benefit from direct mentorship, access to advanced blockchain technology, and collaboration with a global network of subject matter experts. The program is expected to unfold across five world regions and will provide strategic funding to selected projects targeting any of the 17 SDGs, ranging from poverty alleviation to climate action.
Leadership is being provided by BGA Managing Partner Glenn Tan, in coordination with representatives from the UNDP’s AltFinLab. The accelerator is structured to support not only the development of blockchain solutions but also the growth of a resilient ecosystem that enables long-term sustainability and impact.
UNDP representatives involved in the initiative have emphasized the belief that blockchain goes beyond its technical framework, representing a fundamental shift in how societal challenges can be addressed. The accelerator has been framed as a global invitation for innovators to utilize blockchain’s transparency and efficiency in creating inclusive, impactful solutions capable of uplifting communities around the world.
Corporate Support and Global Outreach
The accelerator has received backing from prominent stakeholders, including cryptocurrency exchange Bybit, which has collaborated with BGA on several blockchain-for-good projects. As part of its commitment, Bybit has contributed US$1 million via its “Bybit Pool” initiative to support EthicHub, a blockchain platform focused on empowering smallholder farmers. This funding is aimed at advancing ethical financing and demonstrating how blockchain can build transparent and inclusive supply chains.
In a major development earlier this year, BGA formally expanded its footprint into Europe. This milestone was marked by participation in the UNDP Brussels Roundtable titled “Empowering the Future,” which convened over 30 leaders from various Web3 foundations, European policy institutions, and impact-driven organizations. Delegates included representatives from the Ethereum Foundation, Solana Labs, Stellar Development Foundation, Algorand Foundation, Cardano Foundation, Celo, and other key stakeholders engaged in shaping Europe’s digital future.
Strengthening Policy, Partnerships, and Local Engagement
As part of its broader European strategy, BGA has started building relationships at both the grassroots and policy-making levels. The organization is working to integrate blockchain into policy dialogues while supporting strategic partnerships that anchor blockchain within local development contexts. With blockchain technology increasingly seen as a driver of transparent governance and digital equity, BGA continues to position itself as a pivotal force in promoting innovation for public good across regions.
This global accelerator reflects an evolving perspective in international development—one that positions blockchain not merely as a technical tool, but as a foundation for next-generation solutions in pursuit of inclusive and sustainable progress.
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