The world cannot reach net-zero without its businesses and the United Nations Global Compact is giving companies of every size and sector the tools to lead the way. The Climate Ambition Accelerator is a six-month accelerator programme designed to equip companies with the knowledge and skills they need to accelerate progress towards setting science-based emissions reduction targets aligned with the 1.5°C pathway setting them on a clear path towards net-zero emissions by 2050. Led by the United Nations Global Compact with support from patrons Ørsted and Natura & Co, the programme aims to scale up credible climate action across companies of all sizes, sectors, and regions enabling them to deliver on meaningful commitments to reduce emissions at scale.
Who Should Apply
To take part in the Climate Ambition Accelerator, companies are required to be participants of the UN Global Compact or willing to join, and must be currently engaged with a Global Compact Country Network in their region or willing to join, interested in setting ambitious emissions reduction targets aligned with climate science at the pace and scale required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement, and willing to appoint two representatives to participate in the accelerator activities and events and an executive-level representative to follow accelerator developments, provide support, and participate in high-level events.
No participation fees, the programme is completely free of charge for registered companies.
Two Tracks Available
In-Country Track Participating companies based in specific countries have the opportunity to sign up to the in-country track through their Global Compact Country Network delivered in local languages and tailored to regional regulatory and industry contexts.This is the most immersive experience, connecting you directly with peers and country-level networks.
Global Track Facilitated in English, the global track offers the same curriculum content as the in-country track delivered through a series of live and on-demand sessions available in countries where an in-country programme is not available, with live sessions facilitated at 8:00 AM GMT / 5:00 PM JST. Space is limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged.
What You Will Learn — Programme Modules
Setting the Scene An introduction to the programme, cohort participants, and key tools establishing the shared language and framework that will guide your company’s six-month transformation.
Greenhouse Gas Inventory An in-depth exploration of emissions accounting methodologies and best practices for implementing a comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions inventory because you cannot set meaningful targets without first knowing what you are actually emitting across Scope 1, 2, and 3.
Setting Science-Based Targets A deep dive into the methodology and approach of science-based target setting from the basics to in-depth discussions about the net-zero concept ensuring that the targets your company sets are credible, Paris-aligned, and recognised by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
GHG Management Strategy Identifying the key GHG management strategies to reduce emissions and meet the goals of your climate ambition journey translating your targets into an actionable roadmap that your business can actually implement.
Stakeholder Engagement & Internal Buy-In Learning how to drive climate change ambition internally and build buy-in and engagement for climate action at the management and board level because the hardest part of climate action is often not the science, but the internal politics of getting leadership aligned and committed.
Capstone & Next Steps Compiling the findings from your accelerator journey, sharing learned lessons, and identifying next steps ensuring that the momentum built over six months does not stop when the programme ends.
What Participants Receive
Global Best Practices & Peer Learning Through the Global Compact Local Networks around the world, participating companies gain access to global best practices, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, practical activities, capacity-building sessions, and on-demand training learning from the successes and failures of companies navigating the same journey across the globe.
Science-Based Target Setting Support Participants gain a clear understanding of the SBTi and the net-zero concept, including methodologies, requirements, processes, benefits, and applicability with technical experts on hand to guide companies through what can otherwise be an overwhelming and highly technical process.
Access to Forward Faster Initiative Participants position themselves to be part of the Forward Faster initiative by setting science-based net-zero targets joining a growing coalition of UN Global Compact companies publicly committed to accelerating their transition to net-zero ahead of 2050.
Live Q&A Sessions Before You Commit Companies are invited to register for live Q&A sessions on 2 April (in English) and 3 April (in Spanish) to better understand the inner workings of the Accelerator, what to expect to learn and achieve, and to have any questions answered ensuring no company walks in blind.
The Track Record — Why This Accelerator Works
In 2024, 1,120 companies across 46 networks and 85 countries completed the Climate Ambition Accelerator with over 200 science-based targets set by participating companies. Participants report that the programme provides a benchmark for assessing current strategies, fosters insightful discussions, and enhances their ability to drive climate action. This is not a theoretical exercise — it produces real commitments, real targets, and real results.
Why This Programme Matters
The private sector accounts for the majority of global greenhouse gas emissions — and the transition to a 1.5°C world cannot happen without businesses of all sizes taking verifiable, science-backed action. The Climate Ambition Accelerator builds on the UN Global Compact’s work to develop and promote the Science Based Targets initiative, its net-zero standards, and the Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign, and contributes to initiatives such as the Race to Zero campaign. For any company serious about climate leadership, this is where that journey becomes credible.
Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
