The applications are now open for the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026 in Saudi Arabia. The 2nd Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026 is inviting innovators from around the world to develop original, technology-driven solutions to global supply chain disruptions. The challenge is part of the 2nd UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum, which will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 29 November to 1 December 2026. There is no application fee, and the forum is open to everyone from around the world. More details are below.
About the 2nd Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026
- Host: UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
- Event: 2nd UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum
- Location: Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Forum Dates: 29 November–1 December 2026
- Deadline: 4 September 2027
Financial Benefits
Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered for the selected participant or the representative of the winning team.
What Is the Supply Chain Innovation Challenge?
The Supply Chain Innovation Challenge is designed to identify innovative solutions to current and emerging global supply chain disruptions.
Following the success of the first challenge held during the inaugural Global Supply Chain Forum in Barbados in 2026, the 2026 edition focuses on the role of frontier technologies in helping supply chains anticipate, withstand, and recover from disruptions.
Proposals should demonstrate how technology can contribute to supply chains that are more:
- Sustainable
- Resilient
- Efficient
- Inclusive
Areas of Focus
This year’s challenge focuses on how frontier technologies can help anticipate, withstand, and recover from supply chain disruptions in ways that are more sustainable, resilient, efficient, and inclusive.
What Should Your Proposal Include?
Applicants must submit an original proposal in English of between 1,500 and 3,000 words, including the bibliography and footnotes.
The proposal should contain:
- Clear Problem Statement
- Innovative Solution
- Anticipated Impact
- Feasibility Assessment
Who Can Apply?
The challenge is open to natural persons (individuals) from around the world. Applicants may participate:
- Individually; or
- In teams of up to four people
If a team is selected as the winner, one team member will represent the group in Saudi Arabia and present the winning proposal at the Global Supply Chain Forum.
Proposals must demonstrate a clear commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and practical applicability in real-world supply chain settings.
How do I apply for the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026 in Saudi Arabia?
The official website link is below.
APPLY NOW FOR THE 2ND UNCTAD CHALLENGE
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026?
It is the 2nd Supply Chain Innovation Challenge hosted by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), inviting innovators worldwide to develop original, technology-driven solutions to global supply chain disruptions. It is part of the 2nd UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum, taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 29 November to 1 December 2026. The 2026 edition focuses on the role of frontier technologies.
What prize does the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026 offer?
Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered for the selected participant or the representative of the winning team. If a team is selected as the winner, one team member represents the group in Saudi Arabia and presents the winning proposal at the Global Supply Chain Forum. There is no application fee.
Who can apply for the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026?
The challenge is open to natural persons (individuals) from around the world. Applicants may participate individually or in teams of up to four people. The forum is open to everyone from around the world, and there is no application fee.
When is the deadline for the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge 2026?
The application deadline is 4 September 2027.
What should the UNCTAD Supply Chain Innovation Challenge proposal include?
Applicants must submit an original proposal in English of between 1,500 and 3,000 words, including the bibliography and footnotes. The proposal should contain a clear problem statement, an innovative solution, anticipated impact, and a feasibility assessment. Proposals must demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and practical applicability in real-world supply chain settings.