Since 2002, UNCTAD organizes the annual United Nations Investment Promotion Awards to acknowledge the work of inward and outward investment promotion agencies and special economic zones. The Awards also highlight the contributions of these organizations in raising private sector investment in sustainable development and in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In 2020, a total of 64 United Nations Investment Promotion Awards had been presented to organizations from developing and developed countries. These Awards:
- Recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of the world’s best-practice inward and outward investment promotion agencies and special economic zones.
- Make the investment community and general public aware of exceptional contributions by these organizations to the realization and advancement of development strategies.
- Enhance the dissemination of best practices and lessons learned in the promotion and facilitation of foreign direct investment for sustainable development, inspiring peer organizations around the world.
The process:
Each year, UNCTAD chooses a topical subject for the Awards and carries out a survey among organizations with investment promotion responsibilities. A jury evaluates candidates and selects winners.
The ceremony:
Awards are presented at UNCTAD international meetings, including the World Investment Forum and UNCTAD’s Investment, Enterprise and Development Commission.
Note: If you want to confirm that your organization is considered for the United Nations Investment Promotion Awards, please write to
