
Science Summit 2026 alongside UNGA81, New York
14–30 September 2026 | Online • New York • Nairobi
Science Summit 2026 is a global platform for advancing science, technology and innovation as drivers of sustainable development, international cooperation and evidence-based policymaking. Held alongside the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81), the Summit will bring together scientists, policymakers, innovators, investors, industry leaders, philanthropies, civil society organisations and international institutions to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
The theme for 2026, “From Boundaries to Breakthroughs: Science for a Regenerative and Equitable Future,” reflects a shift from understanding the limits facing our planet to identifying the scientific, technological and financial pathways needed to build a more resilient, inclusive and regenerative future. Science Summit 2025 highlighted the urgency of operating within the Earth’s planetary boundaries. Science Summit 2026 now looks beyond those boundaries towards practical solutions that can transform societies, restore ecosystems, strengthen economies and improve human well-being. (Science Summit NYC)
Science Summit 2026 takes place at a pivotal moment in international cooperation. The implementation of the United Nations Pact for the Future, the Declaration on Future Generations, the outcomes of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), preparations for the post-2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, negotiations surrounding the Global Digital Compact and the evolution of global climate finance all require stronger links between science, policy and investment. The Summit will provide a collaborative platform where these global priorities can be translated into concrete actions, partnerships and implementation strategies. (Science Summit NYC)
The programme is organised around six interconnected themes that reflect the multidisciplinary nature of today’s global challenges:
- Regenerative Systems and Circular Economies – advancing scientific solutions that restore natural ecosystems, improve resource efficiency and accelerate sustainable production and consumption.
- Health, Biotechnology and Human Resilience – strengthening global health systems through innovation in biotechnology, precision medicine, vaccines and resilient healthcare.
- Artificial Intelligence, Data and Future Knowledge Infrastructure – exploring responsible AI, digital science, open data and the next generation of scientific infrastructure.
- Climate Repair and Planetary Stewardship – accelerating scientific solutions for climate adaptation, mitigation, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration.
- Capital Markets and Science Financing – mobilising new public and private financing mechanisms to support research, innovation and the commercialisation of scientific discoveries.
- Science Diplomacy and Global Governance – reinforcing international collaboration, evidence-informed policymaking and governance frameworks for emerging technologies and global challenges. (Science Summit NYC)
Science Summit 2026 will combine a comprehensive three-week online programme with two high-level in-person events. The New York programme, taking place from 21–25 September, will convene international leaders from across the scientific community alongside the United Nations General Assembly. For the first time, the Summit will also be held in Nairobi from 28–30 September, highlighting Africa’s growing leadership in science, innovation and sustainable development and creating new opportunities for global scientific collaboration. (Science Summit NYC)
The Summit provides a unique environment for dialogue across disciplines and sectors. Participants will engage in keynote presentations, ministerial dialogues, scientific symposia, roundtables, policy discussions, innovation showcases, investment forums and networking events designed to accelerate collaboration and translate scientific knowledge into measurable impact.
More than a conference, Science Summit 2026 serves as a catalyst for international partnerships that connect research with policy, finance and implementation. It provides a platform where governments, universities, research organisations, international agencies, industry, investors and civil society can work together to develop practical solutions for global challenges and strengthen the role of science in shaping public policy.
As the international community prepares for the next phase of sustainable development beyond 2030, Science Summit 2026 aims to demonstrate how science can help build a regenerative global economy, promote equitable development, support responsible innovation and contribute to a more peaceful, resilient and prosperous world.
Putting Science at the Heart of Global Solutions.
For further information, partnership opportunities or participation, please visit www.sciencesummitnyc.org or contact info@sciencesummitnyc.org.
This version is around one page long and reads like an official event introduction rather than a marketing flyer, making it suitable for sponsorship proposals, partnership documents, and conference programmes.
- Organisation type: Science Summit
- email: info@sciencesummitnyc.org