# UpLinkInnovation that matters

The World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation engine


## NewUpLink Innovation Challenge Series– Spring 2026

The UpLink Innovation Challenge Series – Spring 2026 brings together multiple challenges across priority systems and industries, addressing specific problem statements with clear pathways for adoption and scale. It calls for early-stage ventures that deliver measurable impact alongside clear business value, strengthen resilience and drive long-term system transformation. From water and longevity to AI-driven supply chains and nature-positive solutions, the topic areas reflect the systems where innovation is most urgently needed.

[Learn more](https://initiatives.weforum.org/api/communities/v1/public/initiatives/site/page-redirect?initiative_id=23ded092-7310-4cd0-92d4-e579a0dedff7&page_id=0e12217b-a3b8-4b5b-836d-2b187ad4c317)


## What is UpLink

UpLink is the World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation engine. Powered by cutting-edge technology and the Forum’s global networks, UpLink co-creates ecosystems that connect purpose-driven innovators with the partnerships, resources and capital they need to scale solutions for the markets and economies critical to a resilient, sustainable and prosperous world.UpLink envisions a future where profit and purpose go hand in hand — where innovation drives competitiveness, inclusion and long-term value, where economic growth uplifts people while restoring the planet, and where resilience is the foundation of thriving, future-proof economies.

[Learn more](https://uplink.weforum.org/our-work)


## Why the world needsearly-stage innovation

Global systems including energy, food, water, cities and infrastructure are under increasing strain. Although many technologies needed for a net-zero future already exist, few reach commercial scale. Early-stage innovation can be a powerful driver of economic growth, job creation and resilience. When supported by strong ecosystems, these solutions unlock new markets, strengthen competitiveness and accelerate the transition to a sustainable and prosperous global economy.

[Learn more](https://initiatives.weforum.org/api/communities/v1/public/initiatives/site/page-redirect?url=https://initiatives.weforum.org/uplink-innovation-ecosystem/&page_id=94d65c9f-2cbd-44be-b535-7a2f27dd3b9e)


## How UpLink accelerates impact


### Building ecosystems of collaboration

We build innovation ecosystems that connect early-stage entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders to accelerate real-world impact.


### Accelerating adoption of breakthrough solutions

We help early-stage solutions move from pilot to market by connecting entrepreneurs with pathways for commercial deployment and scale.


### Shaping the innovation agenda

We amplify evidence-based insights and real-world examples that clarify where innovation matters most, building confidence in early-stage solutions that reshape systems and drive resilient economic growth.

[Explore our ecosystem](https://uplink.weforum.org/our-community)


## UpLink in numbers


**11** Thematic ecosystems with key stakeholders across the innovation spectrum

**898** Ecosystem members including innovators, investors and partners

**350+** Strategic connections facilitated through our Engagement Programme

**$858 m** Total funding raised by the community of  UpLink Ventures in 2025


## Interested in collaborating?

Whether you are an entrepreneur with a breakthrough solution, an investor seeking high-impact opportunities or an organization supporting sustainable growth, UpLink connects you to a global innovation ecosystem driving real-world impact.

[Get involved](https://airtable.com/app814Rdy2J9p3KRD/pagnVRVGoFKfpBDnX/form?prefill_Form+Source=UpLink_Website&hide_Form+Source=true&hide_Challenge=true&prefill_[LR]+Identified+Sources=Lead+form&hide_[LR]+Identified+Sources=true)