UN Global Compact Business & Human Rights Accelerator 2027

The Business & Human Rights Accelerator is a three-month programme from the UN Global Compact. It helps companies turn their commitment to human rights and labour rights into action, using global workshops, peer learning and guidance from Global Compact Country Networks. Participants finish with a practical Action Plan for their own business.

Who can take part

The programme is designed for companies that already have a foundational understanding of human rights and labour rights and are ready to put it into practice. A company must take part in the UN Global Compact or be willing to join, and must commit to completing all mandatory requirements and submitting an Action Plan. It must also appoint two working-level representatives and one executive-level representative. The page states no restriction by nationality: companies in places without a local Country Network can apply to the global track, which is facilitated in English. There is also an Africa track for companies from across the continent.

What participants gain

Participants learn to scope their value chain, identify and prioritize their most salient human rights and labour rights risks and define actions in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. They also receive a certificate of completion and join a network of peers, UN partners and experts. The page does not mention any fee, so ask the Country Network about costs before you commit.

Deadline

Applications opened on 8 September 2026 and the deadline is 30 November 2026. The Accelerator begins in February 2027, and the exact dates should be confirmed with the relevant Country Network. Space is limited, so the organisers recommend applying early.