SDG Innovation Challenge 2026

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Are you ready to test your creativity and problem‑solving skills?

Register for free here.

From 20–24 August 2026, the University of Copenhagen invites students from all disciplines and universities to make a difference at the SDG Innovation Challenge at UCPH Lighthouse. For five immersive days, students work in carefully curated multidisciplinary teams to design solutions to real‑world sustainability challenges linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. No matter your field of study, your perspective matters.

This year’s challenge

In 2026, we turn our attention to Kibera, Africa’s largest informal settlement. Life in Kibera is shaped by complex challenges – and by remarkable strength, creativity, and community resilience. Our case provider, 100% for the Children, is a Danish NGO working to improve the lives of children and young people in Kibera. Among other things, they work on access to menstrual products for girls and women, community adoptation of biogas, access to clean water and santitation, as well as sexual education for children living with disability. The specific case will be revealed on day one – but expect a task that’s real, relevant, and deeply meaningful.
See previous years’ challenges here: https://globalhealth.ku.dk/innovation/

How could your solution grow?

This is the 12th edition of UCPH’s global health innovation challenge, now part of the Sustainability Olympiad – a global network connecting student innovators worldwide. Two teams from the event will be given the opportunity to pitch their solutions to an international jury at the European Regional Final of the Sustainability Olympiad August 27-28. Winners qualify for the Global Sustainability Olympiad in Geneva 6-9 November 2026.
Learn more about the Sustainability Olympiad here: https://www.sdgolympiad.net/

Who can join?

All university students – bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD – across faculties, universities, and countries are invited to apply. We create diverse teams to ensure a wide range of perspectives come together in powerful, innovative ways.

Your hosts

The challenge is organized by the School of Global Health and UCPH Lighthouse, and supported by the 4EU+ University Alliance. Case provider: 100% for the Children.

Up for the Challenge?

Sign up before 6 August 2026 to secure your spot.

Program

Over five days, teams are guided by an experienced innovation consultant through a full design sprint. The programme includes hands‑on training in ideation, prototyping, social innovation, and pitching.
  • 20 August: Welcome, introduction to the SDG Innovation Challenge and case provider, inspiration talks, team formation, and kickoff of the design sprint.
  • 21 August: Deep dive into the case with expert inputs, ideation sessions, and continued work on problem framing and solution concepts.
  • 22 August: Weekend workday – teams develop and refine their solutions independently, with optional guidance and materials available.
  • 23 August: Optional continuation of team work or free time to explore Copenhagen for participants visiting from abroad.
  • 24 August: Final preparations and pitch training in the morning, followed by final pitches to an expert jury in the afternoon.
If you have any questions, please reach out to the School of Global Health on sgh@sund.ku.dk