On 19 October 2021, UNCTAD awarded investment promotion agencies for excellence in promoting investment in health. Finalists were identified through an UNCTAD survey and a research project covering the online investment promotion activities, including their websites and social media channels as well as online events of 188 national IPAs.

The 2021 United Nations Investment Promotion Awards for Excellence in Promoting Investment in Health went to (listed in alphabetical order):

Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency - CINDE

CINDE received the award for the depth and quality of information provided on the health and related sectors on its website, the agency’s online and social media presence which features case studies and news about recent investments in the health sector, and the facilitation of innovative partnerships to strengthen the health ecosystem in the country.

Invest in Holland

Invest in Holland received the award for its online investment promotion activities showcasing the Netherlands as a connected life-sciences metropolis, presenting information on the country’s enabling environment for investment in health including on policy, research and human talent.

Invest Korea

Invest Korea received the award in recognition of the wide ranging coverage of the health sector on its virtual outreach channels. The agency offers a comprehensive package of online tools related to investment in the health sector, including sector guides and reports, information about investment opportunities and incentives and databases on potential partners.

In 2021, UNCTAD also issued two Special Awards for Promoting Investment in the Blue Economy. The special awards went to (listed in alphabetical order):

Economic Development Board

Seychelles Investment Board

The investment promotion agencies from both island economies received the award for being front runners in promoting and facilitating investment in the blue economy. The agencies have developed strategies to attract investment for the exploitation, preservation and regeneration of the marine environment, they have dedicated webpages with sustainable investment opportunities in ocean and coastal resources, and they regularly share their experience and expertise with their counterparts and partners.