UN Global Compact Business & Human Rights Accelerator 2026/2027

Applications are now open for the UN Global Compact Business & Human Rights Accelerator 2026/2027. This program is designed for companies looking to put their commitment to human rights and labor rights into action. It offers a structured approach to understanding and addressing human rights risks within business operations and supply chains.

Application Closing Date: November 30, 2026
Location: Global (with regional and in-country peer learning)
Programme Duration: Three months
Stipend: Not specified
Opportunity Type: Accelerator Programme

About the UN Global Compact Business & Human Rights Accelerator

The Business & Human Rights Accelerator is a three-month program focused on helping companies translate their existing commitments to human rights and labor rights into practical actions. Through a series of global workshops, regional peer learning sessions, and access to expert guidance, participants will learn to implement human rights due diligence within their specific business contexts. The program aims to equip companies with the tools to identify and prioritize their most significant human rights and labor rights risks across their value chains.

By the end of the accelerator, companies will develop a practical Action Plan. This plan will guide them in addressing identified risks and impacts, moving from understanding and commitment to concrete steps. The program aligns with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and other international standards, preparing companies for evolving due diligence requirements.

About the UN Global Compact

The UN Global Compact is a global initiative that encourages businesses worldwide to adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies. It calls on companies to align their strategies and operations with ten universal principles in the areas of human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption. The Global Compact provides a framework for businesses to contribute to UN goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals.

What the Accelerator Offers

Participants in the Business & Human Rights Accelerator will gain several key benefits. These include a practical Action Plan tailored to address their company’s most significant human rights and labor rights risks. The program provides a clear starting point for companies beginning their human rights journey or looking to advance their existing due diligence practices.

Successful participants will receive:

• Prioritized risks and impacts across their value chain.
• An ongoing due diligence approach aligned with the UN Guiding Principles.
• Readiness for evolving requirements on human rights due diligence.
• Stronger stakeholder engagement and improved methods for addressing impacts on people.
• Access to a network of peers, UN partners, and experts for continued support.
• A certificate of completion recognizing participation in the Accelerator.

Eligibility

The Business & Human Rights Accelerator is designed for companies that already have a basic understanding of human rights and labor rights and are ready to apply this knowledge. It is particularly beneficial for companies looking to turn their current commitments into a workable action plan and take the next steps in human rights due diligence. To be considered, companies must be participants of the UN Global Compact or be willing to join.

Additional requirements for companies include:

• Currently engaged with a Global Compact Country Network in their region or willing to join.
• Willingness to identify human rights risks and impacts and scope a core area of their value chain for focus.
• Commitment to developing and submitting an Action Plan to address identified and prioritized human rights risks.
• Commitment to completing all mandatory program requirements.
• Ability to appoint two working-level representatives to attend sessions and participate in activities, plus an additional executive-level representative for support and high-level events.
• Commitment to applying program outcomes across the company’s strategy and operations.

Who Should Apply?

This accelerator program is ideal for companies that are committed to ethical business practices and want to proactively manage their impact on human rights and labor rights. It suits organizations that are ready to move beyond policy statements to tangible action and are looking for structured guidance and peer support. Companies that wish to enhance their reputation, build trust with stakeholders, and prepare for future regulatory landscapes will find this program valuable.

Required Documents

While specific documents for company representatives are not detailed, applicants will need to provide information about their company and nominated representatives through the application form. It is advisable for companies to prepare information regarding their current human rights policies, any existing due diligence processes, and details of potential representatives who will attend the program.

How to Apply

Companies interested in participating should fill out the provided application form. This form requires information about the company and its nominated representatives for the program. Applications close on November 30, 2026. Due to limited space, it is recommended to apply as soon as possible.

Click here to apply for the UN Global Compact Business & Human Rights Accelerator 2026/2027

For more detailed information about the program, visit the official UN Global Compact website.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted companies will be contacted. Space is limited, so early application is encouraged. Companies must be willing to commit to the program’s requirements and actively participate to gain the full benefits. The program aims to foster concrete action and continuous improvement in business and human rights practices.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the UN Global Compact Business & Human Rights Accelerator 2026/2027 is November 30, 2026.

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