UNGA80: the nexus of business and sustainability
The 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) will take place from 9-29 September in New York. Over the past year, the sustainability agenda has rapidly evolved. The UN General Assembly provides a platform for leaders to discuss these changes and more.
The UN Global Compact brings together leaders from across industries and geographies to turn commitments into measurable action. More than just conversations, these convenings forge the present and future of sustainable business action.
Sustainable business events at UNGA80
The UN Global Compact Hub
22–26 September 2025 | Convene, 101 Park Ave, New York
The UN Global Compact Hub is the nexus for all things related to the Global Compact and the General Assembly. This spaceis for business leaders advancing sustainability during UNGA. Participants gain access to curated discussions on climate leadership, human rights and supply chains, as well as the opportunity to network in the Connection Café. The Hub is where strategic collaborations are formed, helping companies engage with each other, allowing attendees to accelerate innovation and providing a platform for investors and stakeholders.
The UN Private Sector Forum 2025
22 September 2025 | UN Headquarters, New York
Hosted by the UN Global Compact on behalf of the Secretary-General, this exclusive gathering serves as a platform for CEOs, investors, heads of state and leaders across the UN system to address the current state of private capital and its mobilization for the SDGs. The event is also geared around the launch of the Sustainable Finance Roadmap, a concrete framework to channel investment into climate adaptation, food systems and decent work in low- and middle-income countries.
Companies can gain direct insight into global financing priorities, helping align corporate strategies with emerging investment opportunities and policy directions.
Learn more about the UN Private Sector Forum
Unstoppable Africa 2025
21–22 September 2025 | New York Marriott Marquis Hotel
With the theme “The BIG Push: Africa’s Time to Shape the Markets”, this high-level forum highlights Africa’s growth potential in energy, trade and digital innovation. Government leaders, investors and entrepreneurs will explore cross-sector partnerships to unlock Africa’s markets, along with many other stakeholders across various industries like fashion, entertainment and finance.
Africa represents one of the fastest-growing regions for sustainable investment and innovation. This forum provides a front-row seat to new markets and a platform to build relationships with key stakeholders shaping the continent’s economic future.
UN Global Compact Leaders Summit 2025
23 September 2025 | New York
The flagship event of the Global Compact calendar, the Leaders Summit gathers decision-makers across industries for practical keynotes, strategy-driven breakout sessions and networking. Confirmed speakers include executives from major global companies, alongside actor and author Rainn Wilson.
The Summit equips leaders with actionable insights, global visibility and peer learning opportunities that strengthen organizational sustainability positioning and corporate reputation.
Side events and collaboration forums
The week also includes specialized sessions, such as the Dilemmas Forum and SDG Investment Forum, which offer focused dialogue on real-world challenges and opportunities.
These targeted events allow companies to showcase solutions and deepen knowledge on specific sustainability issues.
Advancing the SDGs together
The September events of the UN Global Compact are purpose-driven milestones on our shared journey toward inclusive growth and resilient business. By gathering the world’s most dedicated sustainability leaders, we are not only celebrating progress but also defining the next era of impact and action.
Participating in these events positions your business at the centre of the global sustainability agenda.
Benefits include:
- Early insight into emerging trends and global policy direction
- Opportunities to secure partnerships and investments that drive growth
- A stage to highlight your company's commitments and leadership
- Direct engagement with decision-makers shaping the SDG landscape
Join us in seizing this moment to align strategy with purpose, champion innovation and reaffirm our collective commitment to the Ten Principles and the SDGs. Whether a veteran participant or new to the movement, these events are your gateway to inspiration, collaboration and enduring positive change.
