Executive Quarterly Update: Q3 2025

It’s my pleasure to share the third quarter update from the UN Global Compact Network USA (Network USA). The summer months were an exciting time for Network USA. We marked the 25th Anniversary of the UN Global Compact in July, introduced new opportunities for building connections, and continued work in our Accelerator programs. We concluded the quarter with the UN General Assembly (UNGA) and NYC Climate Week, during which we hosted various programs and events that celebrated the contributions of the U.S. private sector in advancing sustainability.

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As we turn toward the end of the year and set our sights on what’s ahead, I’m especially encouraged by the continued momentum for sustainability. Despite global uncertainties and persistent challenges, CEOs worldwide affirm that the business case for sustainability is stronger than it was five years ago, according to our 2025 CEO Study, developed by the UN Global Compact in partnership with Accenture. With that broader context in mind, the following provides an overview of Network USA’s activities and achievements over the last quarter.

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Our Community

In this quarter, we welcomed 46 new participants, bringing our total growth to 136 new participants so far this year.

Programming

This past quarter, companies made significant progress on the Ten Principles through programs such as the Target Gender Equality and Climate Ambition Accelerators, which provide practical frameworks and tools to translate ambition into measurable results. Currently, 27 companies are participating in the programs. I look forward to sharing updates as these programs wrap up.

Looking ahead, applications are now open for the SDG Innovation Accelerator for Young Professionals, the Sustainability Integration Program, and the Business and Human Rights Accelerator. These programs enable companies to integrate sustainability and human rights into their core strategies, establish ambitious targets, and develop systems for long-term impact.

Peer Connections & Collaboration

Creating spaces where people can connect, learn from one another, and turn shared goals into collective action has remained central to our work.

Our Sustainability Trivia Nights brought together veterans and newcomers to test their knowledge on climate, biodiversity, oceans, innovation, and the SDGs. These evenings aimed to build connections while strengthening a network of engaged sustainability practitioners.

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Our 25th Anniversary Reception during UNGA celebrated early champions, Board members, and long-standing partners, reflecting on our journey and the vital role of the U.S. private sector in driving sustainability leadership for decades to come.

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Lastly, our flagship event during UNGA, the Annual Summit, was our largest yet, highlighting the power of the private sector uniting around shared ambitions. As the only UNGA event focused on U.S. business leadership in sustainability, it underscored how materiality, cross-functional collaboration, and data-driven insights are shaping business impact.

As we begin to conclude this year and look forward to supporting your sustainability journeys in 2026, we remain focused on fostering community, collaboration, and learning among participants. Your feedback is invaluable. Please share how we can add the most value to your work. I look forward to providing further insights on the opportunities ahead. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Sincerely,
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Amanda Gardiner  
Executive Director
UN Global Compact Network USA

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