Science, technology, and innovation (STI) are increasingly recognised as key drivers of sustainable development. In the lead-up to the 2025 STI Forum and the 4th United Nations Financing for Development Conference (FfD4), this event will explore strategies to scale up STI financing and strengthen STI ecosystems to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will convene a diverse range of global stakeholders to exchange practical experiences, showcase innovative funding models, and share policy insights that support inclusive and effective STI investments.
The event will spotlight key initiatives such as the STI for SDGs in Africa project and the development of the Second Guidebook on STI Roadmaps. It aims to foster cross-sector collaboration and align STI financing with broader development priorities. In addition, the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) will present early findings from its ongoing study on the STI financing landscape in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering insights into investor profiles, funding flows, financing mechanisms, and their alignment with sustainability objectives.
The ISC is also involved in Closing the funding gap: Financing science, technology and innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals another side event part of the FfD4.
All participants must register by 17 June using the registration button in order to access the JRC premises. Please note that only registered participants will be granted access—the UN Financing for Development Conference (FfD4) conference badge alone will not suffice.
On the day of the event, please arrive at least 30 minutes early to complete registration at the JRC welcome desk. A valid ID or passport will be required for entry.
| Time (CEST) | Topic |
|---|---|
| 10:30 – 10:40 | Welcome and Opening Moderator: Liliana Pasecinic, Deputy Head of Unit for Member States Partnerships and International Relations, JRC – European Commission Welcome from high-level institutional representatives |
| 10:40 – 10:50 | Framing the event in the context of FfD4, Pact for the Future, global STI efforts, and overview on the ‘Second STI for SDGs roadmaps Guidebook’ |
| 10:50 – 11:35 | High-level panel – Aligning Finance, Innovation, and Policy to Accelerate the SDGs |
| 11:35 – 11:50 | Coffee break |
| 11:50 – 12:50 | Learning from Practice: Future Perspectives on Financing STI for the SDGs |
| 12:50 – 13:00 | Closing Reflections and Way Forward |
For more information please visit the event page
Photo by Willian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash
Read more about International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development: 2024-2033 