Transform the future of the SDGs with hands-on blockchain skills
Are you ready to harness the power of blockchain to accelerate innovation and solve real-world challenges? If you’re part of UNDP, UNCDF, or UNV (within UNDP), this is your opportunity to be at the forefront of digital transformation in development.
The Blockchain Academy, powered by UNDP’s Alternative Finance Lab (AltFinLab) in partnership with the Algorand Foundation, invites you to embark on a learning journey that demystifies blockchain and equips you with the skills to apply it for social impact.
From advancing financial inclusion and climate action to strengthening transparency and accountability, the Academy explores how blockchain can transform the way we deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – creating more inclusive, trusted, and sustainable systems for all.
Our programme
The Academy runs for approximately three to four months, combining hands-on learning, and a strong community network to help participants understand how to apply blockchain for sustainable development. It includes recorded lectures, interactive live discussions, case studies, and workshops. As part of Blockchain Academy, you will be invited to other events and opportunities in the blockchain space.
Participants complete four mandatory modules followed by optional deep dives on specialized topics. To receive certification, participants must successfully finish all mandatory modules, assignments, and at least two optional modules.
What we offer
Interactive learning modules – combining self-paced and live sessions on blockchain fundamentals, real-world use cases, and policy frameworks.
Hands-on projects – participants work on the ideation of their blockchain-based solutions addressing concrete development challenges.
Expert guidance – access to leading blockchain professionals, UNDP specialists, and innovation experts.
Tailored sessions and workshops – practical deep-dives on areas such as digital identity, climate action, and inclusive finance.
Community engagement – join a growing global network of peers advancing blockchain for sustainable development.
Post-Academy opportunities
Top-performing projects from the Blockchain Academy can gain entry to the SDG Blockchain Accelerator – a programme designed to provide hands-on mentorship and access to partners and resources needed to move promising ideas toward real-world deployment.
Participants also join the broader UN Blockchain Community of Practice, gaining access to ongoing learning opportunities, peer exchange, and collaboration across the UN system.
Eligibility criteria:
No prior knowledge of blockchain is required – just curiosity and a desire to learn.
You are personnel of UNDP, UNCDF or UNV (within UNDP).
You are passionate about exploring new technologies for social impact.
You commit to spending at least 3 hours per week on the programme over 12-16 weeks.
You have the support and approval of your supervisor.
Meet our cohort
Since its launch in 2024, the Academy has trained 500+ participants from 134 countries across the UN system. Each cohort brings together diverse participants united by a mission: using technology to create a fairer, greener, and more inclusive world.
Environmental sustainability has become one of blockchain’s favorite talking points. Even so, carbon credits, drought insurance, climate adaptation loans, renewable energy certificates, and biodiversity finance […]
INNOVATIVE FINANCE, NEW TECHNOLOGIES, STRATEGIC INNOVATION | 16.04.2026
In 2025, the SDG Blockchain Accelerator delivered 46 pilot- and implementation-ready solutions, with 12 already entering real-world testing. Developed across two global cohorts, 70% of […]
