Science as a Driver of Global Development: Financing Innovation and Health for a Resilient Future
The Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund, from 13–19 April 2026, provide an opportunity to place science at the centre of global discussions on debt, growth, and development finance. In a context of constrained fiscal space and overlapping global crises, science and innovation are essential drivers of productivity, resilience, and long-term economic stability. Yet they are often treated as sectoral issues rather than as core elements of macroeconomic strategy.
As part of the Science Summit series organised by the Science For All Foundation, this side event will examine how development finance and capital markets can be better aligned with policy priorities to strengthen scientific capacity, while underscoring the macro-critical role of science, technology, and AI across health, food security, nutrition, biodiversity, and climate in driving sustainable and inclusive development.
10h30-12h30 From Ideas to Investable Assets: Capital Markets for Science, Technology and Innovation
This session will examine how financial markets can support the scientific and technological capabilities that underpin long-term development, particularly in emerging and developing economies. Bringing together development banks, investors, and scientific institutions, the session will explore how blended finance, guarantees, and innovative financial instruments can de-risk investments in research infrastructure, data systems, and innovation ecosystems. It will also consider the policy conditions needed to develop credible pipelines of science-related investments.
12h30-13h30 Networking Lunch
13h30-15h30 One Health and Development Policy: Aligning Finance, Evidence, and Systems Transformation
Artificial intelligence is emerging as a transformative force in health systems, comparable in impact to the advent of electricity. From smartphone-based cancer detection and personalised treatment planning to AI-powered diagnostics, telehealth, and disease surveillance, these innovations are reshaping how healthcare is delivered, particularly in resource-constrained settings. AI is enabling earlier detection, more precise interventions, and expanded access to care, while strengthening data systems and public health responses. This session will explore the policy and investment implications of scaling AI-driven health solutions, with a focus on how they can enhance system performance, improve equity, and contribute to more resilient and responsive health systems globally.
15h30-1600 Coffee Break
16h00-17h00 Youth at the Forefront of One Health: Influencing Policy, Innovation, and Investment
The youth-led discussion will address the growing challenge of access to healthcare. Rising healthcare costs and widening inequalities in access disproportionately affect young people, particularly in low-income communities. By bringing youth perspectives into the discussion, the event will highlight the connections between health, economic opportunity, and inclusive development.
Together, these sessions aim to generate practical recommendations and partnerships that can inform the World Bank and the IMF and contribute to broader international discussions on financing for development, health security, and sustainable economic growth.
Previous meetings in our Capital Markets Series include:
Partnership Opportunities
If you would like to participate as a speaker, or propose a panel discussion, please contact us at:
Registration form
Please complete this form to register for the event. Attendance is free, but registration is required.
- Organisation type: Financing for Development
- email: info@sciencesummitnyc.org
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