The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Berlin are expanding their collaboration to support startups, scale-ups, and innovation-driven businesses through global platforms focused on sustainable development, technology, and entrepreneurship.
The partnership aims to strengthen connections between innovators, investors, cities, and industry leaders while helping startups develop solutions that contribute to inclusive and sustainable industrial growth. The initiative is part of UNIDO’s broader efforts to create stronger innovation ecosystems and support entrepreneurs in scaling their ideas internationally.
A key focus of the collaboration is the Global ScaleX Alliance, which connects governments, innovation agencies, companies, investors, and startups to accelerate the growth of high-potential businesses. The platform supports local innovation ecosystems by helping cities develop policies, launch innovation programmes, and create opportunities for entrepreneurs to access global networks.
The partnership was highlighted alongside innovation activities at GITEX AI EUROPE 2026 in Berlin, where startups, technology companies, investors, and policymakers gathered to explore opportunities in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and emerging technologies. The event brought together participants from more than 80 countries and focused on building stronger technology partnerships and investment opportunities.
UNIDO is also promoting the One World Sustainability Awards, which recognize innovative startups, sustainable supply chain solutions, and initiatives supporting women in industry. The awards aim to increase visibility for companies developing impactful solutions aligned with sustainability goals and provide opportunities for global collaboration.
Through these initiatives, UNIDO and Berlin are working to bridge the gap between innovation and real-world impact by helping startups access knowledge, investment, partnerships, and international markets. The collaboration reflects a growing emphasis on using technology and entrepreneurship to drive sustainable industrial transformation.
