Application Deadline:
19 Dec 2025
About Organisation
The United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), launched in 2000 by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. It is a voluntary framework designed to encourage businesses worldwide to adopt sustainable and socially responsible practices aligned with ten universally accepted principles. These principles span four key areas: human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption. With thousands of participants across industries and regions, UNGC fosters collaboration between businesses, UN agencies, civil society, and labour groups to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative equips companies to integrate sustainability into strategies and operations while fostering accountability through transparent reporting mechanisms. UNGC’s extensive global network provides practical guidance, capacity-building, and peer learning opportunities to support businesses at every stage of their sustainability journey. By aligning with the Global Compact, companies demonstrate commitment to responsible business conduct, while leveraging collective action to address global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and human rights. Its mission is to create a universal movement of sustainable businesses and stakeholders that drive progress and accountability for a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world.
About the Accelerator
The Business & Human Rights Accelerator is a six-month programme designed to help companies translate commitments into measurable action on human rights and labour rights. Grounded in internationally recognized standards, the programme equips businesses to establish ongoing human rights due diligence processes that safeguard dignity and protect individuals across operations, supply chains, and product use. Participants will explore key responsibilities, including alignment with the International Bill of Human Rights and the International Labour Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. The programme delivers knowledge on assessing impacts, prioritizing risks, mitigating harm, implementing grievance mechanisms, and reporting outcomes transparently. Participants will also prepare for evolving human rights legislation and strengthen connections with broader sustainability initiatives. Key benefits include access to tailored assessments, actionable strategies, and the opportunity to develop a company-specific Action Plan. In addition, participants gain a platform to engage with peers, UN experts, and stakeholders, enabling collective solutions to persistent barriers. At completion, companies receive a certificate of achievement, enhanced visibility, and stronger credibility in embedding human rights at the core of their business strategies. Ultimately, the Accelerator empowers companies to act as leaders in advancing social sustainability globally.
Who can Apply?
The Business & Human Rights Accelerator is open to companies that are participants of the UN Global Compact or those willing to join the initiative. To be eligible, businesses must demonstrate readiness to commit to human rights due diligence and sustainable practices. Companies should either already be engaged with their regional Global Compact Local Network or be willing to establish this connection. Applicants must show willingness to identify human rights risks and impacts across their operations and supply chains, with the ability to scope a core value chain area for focused attention. Additionally, companies must commit to developing and implementing an Action Plan that addresses the human rights risks identified and prioritized during the programme. Each participating organization is required to appoint two working-level representatives who will actively attend sessions, contribute to discussions, and engage in programme activities. Furthermore, an executive-level representative must be designated to track programme developments, lend strategic support, and participate in high-level events. Companies are expected to complete the entire six-month programme and apply learnings systematically across strategies and operations. By doing so, participants will not only build internal capacity but also demonstrate meaningful progress in integrating human rights into business practices.
How to Apply?
Interested companies must submit an application form providing details about their organization and the nominated representatives for the programme. Two working-level staff and one executive-level leader should be identified for participation. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and spaces are limited. Companies are encouraged to apply early to secure participation. Applications will close on December 19, 2025.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Business & Human Rights Accelerator 2025-2026 is December 19, 2025. Early applications are strongly encouraged as programme spaces are limited.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
