Harnessing innovation in the global fight against COVID-19

The global response to the challenges and the adverse social, economic and financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic require innovative ideas and technologies. Developing countries and economies in transition are especially at risk of suffering the consequences of the pandemic in the long run. Disruptions of markets and threats to livelihoods of the most vulnerable populations require fast action and adaptability of solutions to local contexts. UNIDO, through its Global Network of Investment and Technology Promotion Offices (ITPO Network), aims to support the development of effective, fast-acting solutions to combat the outbreak and spread of the coronavirus and ideas to help in mitigating the aftermath of the crisis in developing countries.

On the initiative of ITPO Italy, UNIDO is exploring opportunities to launch a global call for developing countries on “Innovative Ideas and Technologies vs. COVID-19 and beyond” in the form of a competition for innovators from various fields and backgrounds. The global call was first presented at the first-ever virtual extended ITPO Heads’ meeting on 7 April 2020, and shall be open to applicants (individuals and teams) worldwide and generate investment-ready, readily deployable solutions for the most pressing challenges in crucial sectors, such as infrastructure, industry and innovation. ITPO Heads expressed their appreciation for the initiative and committed their support to the call. Updates around the challenge will be released in due course.

ITPO Italy commands vast experience in the organization and management of large-scale international competitions, having co-developed and implemented the biannual international award-series on “Innovative Ideas and Technologies in Agribusiness” since 2015. In the 2019-edition, 8 winning solutions were selected from submissions from over 100 countries based on their innovative and transformative potential to contribute to the achievement of the Agenda 2030.  

For more information on the 2019 International Award, please check here.

For more information, please check the Global Network of Investment and Technology Promotion Offices (ITPOs).