| Host Country | Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Organiser | United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) |
| Location | Riyadh |
| Dates | 29 November–1 December 2026 |
| Deadline | 4 September 2026 |
| Funding | Fully funded travel and accommodation for winner |
| Application Fee | None |
| Eligibility | Open globally to individuals or teams |
The UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026 invites innovators worldwide to present original, technology-driven solutions addressing global supply chain disruptions. This fully funded opportunity takes place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 29 November to 1 December 2026. There is no application fee, and the challenge welcomes individual applicants and teams from all countries. If selected, travel and accommodation expenses will be covered for one team representative or individual participant. Submit your innovative proposal by 4 September 2026 to participate in this prestigious global event.
Details About UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026, Saudi Arabia (Fully Funded)
- Host Country: Saudi Arabia
- Organiser: United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
- Location: Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Event Dates: 29 November–1 December 2026
- Application Deadline: 4 September 2026
- Funding Type: Fully funded travel and accommodation for winning participant or team representative
- Application Fee: None
- Eligibility: Open globally to individuals or teams of up to four people
About UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026, Saudi Arabia (Fully Funded)
The Supply Chain Innovation Challenge is organised by UNCTAD as part of the 2nd UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum. This forum gathers experts and innovators to address pressing challenges in international supply chains. Building on the success of the inaugural 2024 challenge held in Barbados, the 2026 edition emphasizes the application of frontier technologies to create supply chains that are more sustainable, resilient, efficient, and inclusive. Participants are invited to submit original proposals demonstrating how technology can help supply chains anticipate, withstand, and recover from disruptions.
Financial Benefits
- Travel expenses covered for one individual from the winning team or the winning individual
- Accommodation costs paid during the forum duration
- No application or participation fees
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to natural persons worldwide, including African nationals
- Applicants may apply individually or in teams of up to four members
- Proposals must be original and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and practical application in real-world supply chains
What Should Your Proposal Include?
Applicants must submit a proposal in English between 1,500 and 3,000 words, including bibliography and footnotes. The proposal should clearly cover:
- Problem Statement defining the supply chain disruption addressed
- Innovative Technology-Driven Solution
- Anticipated Impact on supply chain sustainability, resilience, efficiency, or inclusivity
- Feasibility Assessment for real-world implementation
Areas of Focus
The challenge focuses on frontier technologies that help supply chains:
- Anticipate disruptions
- Withstand shocks
- Recover effectively
- Enhance sustainability, resilience, efficiency, and inclusivity
How to Apply for the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026, Saudi Arabia (Fully Funded)?
To apply, prepare your original proposal in English following the guidelines above. Submit your application before the 4 September 2026 deadline through the official online form. There is no application fee, making this opportunity accessible worldwide, including African applicants. If your team wins, one member will attend the forum in Riyadh to present the proposal.
Apply now through the official link: Apply for the 2nd UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026.
Participating in this challenge offers a unique chance to contribute to global efforts in improving supply chain systems while gaining international exposure. Prepare a strong, clear, and innovative proposal to increase your chances of selection. Travel and accommodation are fully funded for the winning representative, easing participation costs.