We are excited to share an opportunity to contribute to a global initiative advancing innovation for sustainable development. For the past four consecutive years, we at Engineering for Change (E4C) and ASME ISHOW have provided pro-bono expertise, leadership, and operational support to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) through the UN Science, Technology, and Innovation Forum (UN STI Forum) Call for Innovations for the SDGs.
For four consecutive years, E4C has helped the United Nations identify solvers, particularly from the Global South, who are developing and deploying social innovation solutions in a pro bono capacity. During the 2026 Call, over 900 applications were received; 10 were showcased and invited to participate in person at the UN STI Forum in New York City; and 60 were showcased in the solutions book and invited to participate in virtual capacity-building efforts. This year, the UN is seeking solutions to Goals 4 (Quality Education), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), 15 (Life on Land), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
We are now seeking volunteers for two opportunities:
Volunteer Reviewer (Multiple required)
- Review and evaluate applications during the first phase of the selection process.
- Assess submissions based on their alignment with the SDGs, measurable social and environmental impact, stage of development and readiness for deployment, clarity of communication, and potential for scale.
Lead Reviewer (1 required)
- Support the coordination and quality assurance of the review process.
- Oversee and guide volunteer reviewers throughout the first review phase.
- Collaborate with the E4C and ASME ISHOW team during the second review phase to help identify the Top 50 and Top 30 innovators that will be submitted for final consideration.
The selected Lead Reviewer may have the opportunity to participate in person at the UN STI Forum 2027 in New York City, subject to funding availability from UN DESA. Funding decisions are expected to be confirmed by the end of the year.
As a volunteer or lead reviewer, your contributions will directly support the identification of transformative solutions that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Please confirm your interest in contributing to this effort by completing this form as soon as possible. If you are selected, we will host a virtual onboarding session in October to walk you through the evaluation process and answer any questions you may have. Further details about onboarding will follow after your participation is confirmed.
