UNEIF empowers entrepreneurs, enterprises, and communities to drive inclusive economic development aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Born out of the UN's mission to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation, UNEIF supports initiatives that promote inclusive growth, resilience, and equitable development across all regions.
A world where inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainability drive prosperity and opportunity for all.
Palais des Nations, CH-1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland
People with improved access to renewable energy through UNEIF projects
Countries served by our Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance
Maximum grant available through the Accelerate Entrepreneurship Challenge
Year the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) was established
From green innovation to digital entrepreneurship, UNEIF's programs address the most pressing global development challenges.
A global initiative under the UNEIF Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Portfolio. Grants from USD 50,000 to USD 1,000,000 for startups, MSMEs, SMEs, and large corporations demonstrating innovation, scalability, and community impact.
Supporting renewable energy projects and climate resilience programs that have improved energy access for over 20 million people across developing regions.
Bridging the digital divide by funding tech-driven enterprises and providing training and mentorship to digital entrepreneurs in underserved and emerging markets.
Lead coordinator for international disaster relief, employing hundreds of humanitarian experts across 57 countries in food security, water, health, shelter, and protection.
Dedicated portfolio supporting youth and women entrepreneurs with grants, capacity building, market access, and mentorship to create jobs and sustainable value.
Assisting communities across 70+ countries to enhance food security, education, and resilience to climate change through strategic partnerships and targeted investment.
"UNEIF's innovative programs significantly advance economic empowerment and tackle poverty effectively."Partner Organization — West Africa
"UNEIF's impactful partnerships and solutions are transforming communities and enhancing resilience."Development Partner — Southeast Asia
"UNEIF's inclusive approach and effective strategies foster global economic growth and poverty reduction."Multilateral Stakeholder — Latin America
Support UNEIF's programs through funding, strategic partnership, or volunteering your expertise.
Five decades of catalyzing sustainable economic transformation across the globe.
The United Nations Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund (UNEIF) was established in 1975 to catalyze sustainable economic transformation globally. Born out of the UN's mission to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation, UNEIF supports initiatives that promote inclusive growth, resilience, and equitable development across all regions.
With a budget of $42.8 billion, UNEIF is committed to transforming economies by funding and supporting businesses in developing regions, driving sustainable growth and innovation. UNEIF facilitates connections between businesses, investors, and governments to build the partnerships needed for lasting change.
Looking ahead, UNEIF aims to expand its global programs in green innovation, digital entrepreneurship, and climate resilience — ensuring that the most vulnerable communities have access to the tools, funding, and support they need to thrive.
UNEIF established under the UN mandate to strengthen global entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems.
Scaled operations to Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America — reaching over 30 countries.
Fully aligned all programs with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals.
BHA established through the merger of the Office of Food for Peace and the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance.
Our leadership is composed of global development experts, entrepreneurs, and innovators dedicated to advancing sustainable progress worldwide.
With over two decades of experience in international development and humanitarian assistance, Dr. Blake excels in economic empowerment, strategic partnerships, and policy advocacy.
Oversees UNEIF's six core program portfolios across 70+ countries, ensuring alignment with the UN SDGs and delivery of measurable development impact.
Leads UNEIF's humanitarian response operations across 57 countries, coordinating disaster relief and long-term recovery programming.
From emergency humanitarian response to long-term entrepreneurship development — UNEIF's programs drive measurable, lasting impact.
The UNEIF Accelerate Entrepreneurship Challenge is a global initiative under the UNEIF Youth and Women Entrepreneurship Portfolio. It aims to empower entrepreneurs, startups, MSMEs, SMEs, and large companies driving innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth across the world.
Legally registered startups, MSMEs, SMEs, and large corporations demonstrating innovation, scalability, and community impact. Applications are open globally.
Grant capital between USD 50,000 – USD 1,000,000. Funding is non-dilutive and performance-based, targeting enterprises with proven social or environmental impact.
Support youth and women entrepreneurs, promote job creation, address unmet needs in underserved markets, and strengthen value chains and inclusive business ecosystems.
Renewable energy projects and climate resilience programs. Improved energy access for over 20 million people across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Bridging the digital divide by funding tech-driven enterprises and providing training in digital economies to entrepreneurs in emerging markets.
Lead coordinator for disaster relief across 57 countries, focusing on food security, nutrition, water, health, shelter, logistics, agriculture, and protection.
Dedicated grants, mentorship, and capacity building for youth and women-led enterprises creating jobs and sustainable value in their communities.
Leveraging faith-based organizations' deep community presence to extend UNEIF's reach in societies where religion plays a central role in development.
Assisting 70+ countries to enhance food security and build resilience to climate change through targeted investment and strategic partnerships.
Join a global team of development experts, entrepreneurs, and innovators shaping the future of sustainable economic growth. UNEIF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
We encourage applications from women, youth, and persons with disabilities. UNEIF does not charge any fee at any stage of recruitment.
Supports UNEIF's field programs by connecting communities to entrepreneurship and innovation opportunities through mobilization and outreach activities. Works directly with youth, women, and local enterprises to engage in UNEIF projects.
Manages a portfolio of entrepreneurship development grants, providing technical assistance to grantees and ensuring alignment with UNEIF's strategic objectives and SDG targets.
Supports UNEIF's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance in coordinating international disaster relief operations, working across food security, nutrition, water, and shelter sectors.
Leads UNEIF's renewable energy and climate resilience programs, identifying and supporting enterprises driving sustainable energy access and climate adaptation solutions in developing regions.
Send your CV and a brief expression of interest. UNEIF keeps applications on file for emerging opportunities.
Get in touch with our team for partnership inquiries, media relations, or general information.
Palais des Nations
CH-1211 Geneva 10
Switzerland
Your contribution powers entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development for millions of people worldwide.
Your donation supports UNEIF's programs across 70+ countries — from entrepreneurship grants to disaster relief. Every contribution helps build a world where inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainability drive prosperity for all.
UNEIF is a UN-affiliated organization. Donations may be tax-deductible depending on your jurisdiction.