UNDP AltFinLab invites UN teams to apply for the 2026 SDG Blockchain Accelerator
August 20, 2026 | Innovative Finance, New Technologies
The third edition will help UN teams turn challenges from active programmes into practical, scalable solutions with support from leading blockchain and AI partners.
The UNDP Alternative Finance Lab (AltFinLab) has launched an open call for the third edition of the SDG Blockchain Accelerator, inviting UNDP Country Offices and other UN entities to submit development challenges linked to active programmes and portfolios by 30 September 2026.
The global initiative helps develop and scale practical solutions powered by blockchain, AI and other emerging technologies to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It connects UN teams facing concrete development challenges with vetted technology partners who can help them explore, develop and implement practical solutions with the potential for development impact.
AltFinLab leads the Accelerator in strategic partnership with the Blockchain for Good Alliance, alongside leading technology partners across the blockchain and AI ecosystems, including the Cardano Foundation, Stellar Development Foundation, Partisia Foundation, DFINITY Foundation, and FLock.io. Together, they bring expertise from across the blockchain and AI ecosystems and connect participating teams with technical guidance, mentorship and wider partner networks.
The 2026 edition welcomes applications from UNDP Country Offices, global teams and other UN entities that have an active programme, institutional backing and a credible pathway to take a solution forward. Applicants do not need prior blockchain or AI expertise, nor are they expected to identify the type of solution needed before applying.
Applicants should start with a concrete delivery challenge within an active programme, clearly identifying who it affects, what needs to change and why it matters. For examples of how UNDP teams have translated programme challenges into practical solutions, explore New Tech, New Partners: Transforming Development in the Digital Era, which features more than 40 solutions developed through the Accelerator.
The third edition will offer two technology tracks: blockchain, and decentralized AI & cloud. Across both tracks, the Accelerator will support development challenges in four key areas such as digital payments, digital identity, traceability and supply chains, and data and privacy.
The new cohort edition builds on the results of the Accelerator’s first two global cohorts. Fifty teams participated, producing 46 implementation-ready solutions. Seventy percent are now embedded within ongoing national and regional programmes, while 12 progressed into piloting in country contexts. These results have informed a more selective model centred on strong programme ownership and a practical pathway towards implementation.
Once UN teams are matched with technology partners, they will then move through a structured acceleration process combining technical mentorship, solution development, implementation planning, business and communications support, post-acceleration support, and access to international technology ecosystems. They will also receive continued guidance on partnerships, procurement and resource mobilization after the programme.
This model helps teams move viable solutions beyond stand-alone technology concepts and integrate them into ongoing programme delivery, strengthening services and contributing to greater transparency, efficiency, inclusion and accountability.
Learn more about the SDG Blockchain Accelerator and apply by September 30, 2026!
