Scaling innovation: Dr. Nina Smidt at the United Nations
At the panel discussion “Scaling Innovations for People and the Planet” at the UN STI Forum, Dr. Nina Smidt advocates for international cooperation and co-constructive partnerships.
© Siemens Stiftung
As part of the side event “Scaling Innovations for People and the Planet: Navigating uncertainties and building partnerships to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals” at the 10th Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation (STI Forum), Dr. Nina Smidt, Managing Director and Spokesperson of Siemens Stiftung, joined the panel as an invited speaker.
Addressing a high-level audience from governments, civil society, and the UN system, Dr. Smidt emphasized the critical role of social entrepreneurs as key drivers of sustainable development. She highlighted the importance of co-creative approaches and strong partnerships with local changemakers to achieve systemic impact in emerging markets.
“As an internationally operating foundation, we see ourselves as a bridge builder – whether through access to funding or through hands-on support,” said Dr. Smidt. She pointed to Siemens Stiftung’s close collaboration with partners such as Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the European Union, and other foundations to effectively scale social innovation and foster community-based learning.
The panel also marked the official launch of the UN Global Pulse Accelerator Programme 2025, designed to accelerate innovation for the implementation of the SDGs. The event was hosted by the Government of Finland and broadcast via UN Web TV.
