The UN Technology Bank is the only United Nations organization exclusively focused on transforming the world’s poorest countries through science, technology and innovation.

We work alongside governments, the private sector and leading research institutions to foster sustainable development where it is needed most. By assessing a country’s unique technology needs, we connect them with tailored solutions and back this up by facilitating skills building and boosting the capacity of key institutions in these countries.  

The launch of the UN Technology Bank in 2018 marked the achievement of SDG Target 17.8Opens a new window, underscoring our critical role in strengthening the resources and partnerships needed to achieve sustainable development.

Our mission

To use science, technology and innovation to help the world’s 44 Least Developed CountriesOpens a new window accelerate their development.

We also work to support countries that recently graduated from the least developed category.

Our vision

A world where science, technology and innovation can quickly close development gaps, ensuring people from the poorest and most vulnerable countries are not left behind.

About least developed countries

The Least Developed Countries are home to about 1.1 billion people, or 14% of the global population yet they account for just 1% of global Gross Domestic Product. They face significant structural barriers to growth and are highly vulnerable to economic and climate shocks. Despite their challenges, the Least Developed Countries have vast human, cultural and natural resources. By leveraging science, technology and innovation and building capacities in this area, the UN Technology Bank works to unlock the potential for their long-term sustainable growth, impacting millions of lives.

Learn more about our work

• Since 2018, we have conducted Technology Needs AssessmentsOpens a new window in 14 countries, with three ongoing
• In BhutanOpens a new window, over 75,000 children have been screened for hearing impediments
• 100 students from 22 Least Developed Countries have received scholarshipsOpens a new window
• We reviewed The Gambia’s cashew nut sector and followed through with capacity training to reduce post-harvest lossOpens a new window.