Executive Quarterly Update: Q2 2025

It’s my pleasure to share the latest quarterly update from the UN Global Compact Network USA (Network USA). For those I haven’t had the chance to meet yet, I’m Amanda Gardiner. I joined as Executive Director last month after spending the last 13 years in the private sector advancing corporate sustainability. As a long-time participant in Network USA, I’ve always appreciated the strength and depth of this community, which shares a commitment to environmental, social, and governance leadership. Now, stepping into this role full-time, I’ve had the privilege of seeing that commitment in action from the inside. One standout moment from my first few weeks was our business roundtable in June, where more than 24 leaders from some of the largest U.S. companies joined Assistant Secretary-General Sanda Ojiambo for an open and thoughtful dialogue on advancing sustainability when faced with headwinds. We explored how companies can align more deeply with the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, leverage global sustainability frameworks to build resilience, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving national and global landscape.

This is just one example of how Network USA creates space for critical conversations. In the summary below, you’ll find highlights of other recent activities as well as upcoming opportunities to get involved. I welcome your feedback on what we're doing well and how we can do better to support you in achieving your sustainability priorities.

Here’s an overview of the last few months:​​​

‍Growth

‍Network USA continues to grow. We now count 1,083 participants in our Network. We welcomed 52 companies in Q1 2025, our highest Q1 growth to date. In Q2, momentum continued, gaining 37 new participants, keeping pace with last year's strong growth.

Programming

‍Over the past quarter, we’ve made great strides across our programming. Through initiatives like our Accelerators and Peer Learning Groups, we offer dynamic, solutions-focused experiences that help companies advance their sustainability goals and leadership. Participation in our Climate Ambition and Business & Human Rights Accelerators remains strong, with recent cohorts bringing together 78 participants from 39 companies. We also wrapped up the latest SDG Ambition Accelerator, where 22 representatives from 11 companies spent six months working to embed responsible business practices into their operations.

And just recently, we kicked off the 2025 Peer Learning Groups on Climate Action, Living Wage, and Corporate Sustainability. These are peer-led spaces for open, practical conversations on key sustainability challenges. Learn more on how to get involved with our programming today here.

Peer Connections

‍We understand the importance of peer learning and connection and are testing several new formats for doing this. We recently convened in Boston for an event focused on integrating health equity into business strategy and planning. Discussions were driven by leaders from companies such as Colgate-Palmolive, Biogen, and Bristol Myers Squibb.

We hosted our inaugural Sustainability Trivia Night during the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF). The event was an excellent opportunity to network and convene with sustainability professionals across industries and roles, for an evening of friendly competition, community building, and knowledge sharing.  

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This September, during the UN General Assembly and Climate Week NYC, we’re excited to celebrate the UN Global Compact’s 25th Anniversary and host a relaxed gathering for climate professionals. Our Annual Summit, the highlight of our UNGA programming, will bring together 200+ senior leaders from business, government, civil society, and the UN for inspiring plenaries and roundtable discussions on today’s most pressing sustainability challenges. We’d love for you to express your interest in attending and be part of these impactful conversations.

In the meantime, a quick reminder: the Communication on Progress (CoP) submission deadline is July 31 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Please prioritize your submission and reach out to us at cop-support@unglobalcompact.org if you need any support.

As I complete my first month as Executive Director, I’m inspired by the remarkable impact of this Network. In just a few weeks, I've had the opportunity to meet many of you and hear more about the dynamic and continuously evolving role you play in building resilient companies, and driving meaningful, transformative change.

Thank you for the warm welcome, continued support, and partnership.

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Sincerely,

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Amanda Gardiner

Executive Director

UN Global Compact Network USA