UN Economic Development Programme - UNEDP

The creative sector holds immense promise for economic and social empowerment. But there’s much more to do to extend its benefits to everyone, everywhere.
The creative economy by nature is an evolving concept, largely involving goods and services based on creativity and intellectual capital as primary inputs.

Some examples can be audiovisual products, design, media, music, performing arts, publishing and visual arts.

Over the last ten years, creative exports have tripled, now making up one fifth of global service exports.

A recent survey by UN Trade and Development also shows the creative economy accounting for up to 7.3% of GDP and 12.5% of workforce in countries where data is available.

As the global economy continues to reel under low growth, high debt, weak trade and investment, the creative sector has taken on heightened significance as a catalyst for innovation and economic diversification.

“In this challenging context, the creative economy is a force that is pushing us forward,” says Secretary-General Grynspan.

“Let us harness its power to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to express their creativity, contribute to their communities, and thrive in a future that is both inclusively creative and sustainably prosperous.”

🌱 Building a Greener Future: Advancing Agriculture Through the Green Economy

Sustainable agriculture is at the heart of the green economy, especially across regions where farming sustains millions of livelihoods. As climate challenges intensify, the shift toward environmentally responsible and economically viable agricultural practices becomes essential.

The UN Economic Development Fund (UNEDF) supports efforts that help communities adapt and grow through:
• Climate-smart farming techniques that protect soil, water, and biodiversity
• Renewable-energy solutions that reduce costs and support rural productivity
• Capacity-building for farmers and cooperatives to strengthen resilience
• Inclusive value chains that ensure fair opportunities from farm to market
• Green innovation and technology that boost yields while reducing environmental impacts

A strong green economy not only protects the planet—it strengthens food security, creates jobs, and gives communities the tools they need to build sustainable futures.

Across many regions, communities continue to face economic barriers that limit growth, opportunity, and long-term stability. The UNEDP works to address these challenges by supporting initiatives that strengthen local economies, encourage entrepreneurship, and build technical capacity within organizations.
Our focus includes:
• Providing financial support to development-focused enterprises
• Helping organizations strengthen their skills and operational capacity
• Encouraging job creation and sustainable economic solutions
• Supporting regional projects that promote long-term resilience
As economic landscapes evolve, UNEDP remains committed to helping communities build the foundations for inclusive and sustainable development.

Driving Inclusive Growth • Empowering Enterprises • Transforming Communities

The UNEDP is committed to accelerating sustainable economic development across regions by providing financial assistance, enterprise development support, and technical capacity-building to organizations and businesses that are shaping a better future.

From supporting small enterprises to boosting large-scale development initiatives, we work to foster job creation, strengthen local economies, and promote long-term regional development.

✨ Together, we can build stronger economies, create meaningful opportunities, and uplift communities around the world.

Small businesses are often the lifeline of rural communities—especially for women and youth. UN agencies, under the leadership of the RCs, are investing in these enterprises as engines of local prosperity, helping them grow in sectors like agriculture and green innovation. These efforts don’t just build businesses—they build resilience, self-reliance, and long-term opportunity. In 2024, the UN’s interventions significantly boosted economic opportunities for MSMEs across Jordan, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability. Nearly 1,500 loans, totaling almost USD 7 million, were disbursed under the Rural Finance Component, with the majority benefiting women and youth. These loans enabled the expansion of livestock, horticultural, and agricultural projects, directly improving livelihoods and fostering economic resilience in rural communities.

Small and medium-sized enterprises remain central to the economic stability and growth of emerging markets. UNEDP’s SME Development Program provides strategic funding and professional support to enterprises that demonstrate innovation, social impact, and strong potential for expansion. This program is tailored for organizations seeking to enhance their operational capacity, upgrade technology, or expand to new markets. Interested enterprises are encouraged to review our eligibility criteria and apply through the UNEDP portal.

The UN Economic Development Programme continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusive economic growth across developing regions. Through targeted financial support, technical assistance, and enterprise development programs, UNEDF helps local organizations scale their operations, improve productivity, and expand access to economic opportunities. We welcome partnerships and proposals that align with our mission of building resilient and self-sustaining economies.

Over 70% of Rwanda’s population depends on agriculture, while sectors like tourism, water, and energy are tied to healthy ecosystems. Recognizing this, Rwanda is stepping up to align its financial systems with the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD). Strong foundations are already in place through Natural Capital Accounting, the Rwanda Green Taxonomy, and leadership from the National Bank of Rwanda and the Capital Market Authority in embedding sustainability into regulation. Building on these achievements, opportunities remain in strengthening data, awareness, and financial sector engagement, positioning Rwanda to lead regionally in nature-positive finance and sustainable, resilient growth.

Every human is equal in dignity and deserves the same opportunities.
Together, let's make this a reality for everyone, everywhere.

Millions of people cannot afford or have access to healthy food 🥦🍌🍅🍊.
Let's commit to avoiding food wastage and build a future where nutritious food is available to everyone, everywhere.

30 years after the landmark First World Summit for Social Development, the world faces a new moment of reckoning.
Deepening inequalities, demographic shifts, rapid technological change, climate hazards and severe financing constraints all threaten global peace and prosperity. These are interconnected crises that demand integrated solutions.
The is a platform for dialogue and collaborative action, a space for leaders from governments, international organizations, civil society, the private sector, academic institutions and the United Nations system to share ideas, refine strategies, forge partnerships and renew their commitments to inclusive social development.
The Summit will culminate in the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration, setting out an integrated approach linking traditional commitments to emerging challenges like digital transformation, demographic shifts, climate and finance

As the UN celebrates 80 years in 2025, it is facing an existential crisis. With delayed payments, US aid cuts and shifting geopolitics, a massive overhaul is underway. A leaked memo reveals plans to consolidate agencies into four pillars, slash operational costs, and relocate staff to budget-friendly hubs like Nairobi. Even major bodies like the WFP, UNHCR, and WHO are braced for cuts and consolidation. Curious about the proposed reforms? Read our latest article to get the full scoop. https://www.developmentaid.org/link/un-reform-proposals

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