Current and future approaches and innovations to support targets set for SDG1

The eradication of poverty, as outlined in SDG 1 (No Poverty), remains one of the most pressing challenges of our time, with over 600 million people projected to still live in extreme poverty by 2030 if current trends persist. Innovation is vital in disrupting this trajectory by introducing creative and scalable solutions to address the multifaceted dimensions of poverty. From providing access to financial services and education to ensuring sustainable livelihoods, innovative approaches can empower individuals and communities to break the cycle of poverty and build resilience. These solutions must be adaptable, context-specific, and inclusive to reach marginalised populations often excluded from traditional poverty alleviation measures.

Poverty is not uniform—it manifests differently across regions and demographics, driven by factors like income inequality, climate vulnerabilities, and governance gaps. Innovations tailored to local needs, such as mobile banking platforms for financial inclusion, climate-resilient technologies for agriculture, and community-driven micro-finance initiatives, can address these diverse challenges effectively. Moreover, harnessing the power of digital tools, artificial intelligence, and public-private partnerships can amplify the impact and scale of poverty reduction strategies. By fostering economic empowerment and access to resources, innovation can create pathways toward long-term, sustainable solutions that uplift entire regions.

The transformative potential of innovation in achieving SDG 1 is immense, but it requires global collaboration and investment to bridge existing gaps. Governments, businesses, and civil society must work together to support innovative projects and ensure that resources, technology, and knowledge are accessible to those most in need. This includes fostering policy environments that encourage experimentation and cross-sector partnerships, as well as providing platforms for scaling up successful initiatives.

Current approaches/innovations for common challenges

Grouping global regions with common challenges for SDG 1 is described here. The tables below illustrate how activities or innovations are being tailored to specific regional challenges, showcasing the role of creativity, technology, and targeted interventions in tackling poverty across the globe.

Group 1: Regions facing persistent poverty and inequality

Regions Included: South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Middle East and North Africa (MENA)

In areas grappling with entrenched poverty and inequality, digital financial services such as mobile banking and microfinance platforms are bridging the gap for marginalised populations, enabling them to access savings, credit, and insurance. Agri-tech solutions, including precision agriculture tools and mobile applications for market connectivity, are empowering small-scale farmers to boost their productivity and secure better prices for their produce. Community-led innovation hubs are fostering tailored, locally relevant solutions to uplift rural and underserved communities, addressing the barriers to economic participation. Additionally, social protection systems powered by digital tools are ensuring timely assistance for vulnerable populations, promoting inclusivity and equity.

Approach/Innovation Complexity Timeframe Examples Suitable Region(s)
Community savings programs Low 1–3 years Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) empower local communities Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia
Cash transfer programs for low-income families Low 1–3 years Bolsa Família in Brazil supports vulnerable families Latin America and the Caribbean
Mobile banking solutions Medium 1–3 years M-Pesa in Kenya Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia
Tailored microfinance platforms Medium 3–6 years Kiva provides small loans globally Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean
Affordable housing using 3D printing High 5–10 years ICON creates low-cost housing Latin America and the Caribbean, Sub-Saharan Africa
Group 2: Regions facing climate vulnerabilities

Regions Included: Small Island Developing States (SIDS), East Asia and Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia

In regions exposed to climate-induced shocks, innovations focus on resilience and adaptability. Climate-smart agricultural practices, such as drought-resistant crops and efficient irrigation systems, are helping rural communities combat food insecurity and sustain livelihoods. Renewable energy solutions, such as decentralised solar-powered microgrids, are providing energy access to communities affected by energy poverty, fostering economic opportunities in the process. Additionally, early-warning systems powered by AI and IoT are equipping communities to anticipate and mitigate climate risks, safeguarding both lives and economic activities. Reforestation technologies and sustainable land-use practices are also supporting ecological restoration, ensuring long-term resilience.

Approach/Innovation Complexity Timeframe Examples Suitable Region(s)
Cash-for-work initiatives for disaster-affected communities Low 1–3 years UNDP programs provide reconstruction support Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia
Sustainable agricultural technologies Medium 3–6 years CIMMYT supports drought-resistant crops Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia
Decentralized renewable energy systems Medium 3–6 years Solar Sister empowers communities Sub-Saharan Africa, Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
Climate-resilient crop insurance High 3–6 years Index-Based Crop Insurance Scheme protects farmers Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia
AI for monitoring and managing climate risks High 3–6 years Google Earth Engine maps climate vulnerabilities Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
Group 3: Regions with urbanisation and governance challenges

Regions Included: Latin America and the Caribbean, East Asia and Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia

Rapid urbanisation and governance complexities are driving innovative approaches to address poverty in urban contexts. Affordable housing solutions, including low-cost, modular housing designs, are mitigating the impact of informal settlements and homelessness. Digital platforms for informal workers are formalising labor markets, ensuring access to social protections and fair wages. Urban planning technologies like GIS and IoT-enabled infrastructure are enhancing service delivery in expanding cities, reducing disparities in access to water, sanitation, and healthcare. Additionally, governance-focused innovations, such as blockchain for transparency and e-governance platforms, are strengthening institutional accountability and empowering citizens to participate in decision-making.

Approach/Innovation Complexity Timeframe Examples Suitable Region(s)
Urban informal settlement upgrading programs Medium 3–6 years Slum Dwellers International improves housing conditions Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia
Digital platforms for citizen engagement Medium 3–6 years Ushahidi collects and maps feedback Sub-Saharan Africa
AI for identifying and addressing governance issues High 5–10 years No specific example yet; potential exists East Asia and Pacific
Affordable and scalable housing projects High 5–10 years Affordable Housing Institute (AHI) develops solutions globally Latin America and the Caribbean, Sub-Saharan Africa
Blockchain for transparent public resource management High 5–10 years BitGive applies blockchain for governance transparency Sub-Saharan Africa


Future activities and innovations to help achieve targets for SDG 1

Achieving the targets set for SDG 1 requires a multi-faceted approach combining key activities such as expanding access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and decent work opportunities. Innovations like leveraging technology for financial inclusion, creating sustainable livelihoods through renewable energy, and utilising data-driven strategies to target marginalised populations can play a transformative role. Collaboration between governments, private sectors, and civil society is essential to build social protection systems, ensure equitable resource distribution, and uplift communities from the cycle of poverty.


Future Activites
  • Urban-Rural Equity: Investing in transport, education, and healthcare infrastructure in rural areas ensures equitable access to opportunities.

  Example: Infrastructure projects in Cambodia and Papua New Guinea are improving access to clean water and sanitation.


  • Tech-Enabled Solutions: Scaling up digital literacy programs and addressing rural connectivity challenges can accelerate digital inclusion.

  Example: Digital literacy programs in Vietnam are addressing rural connectivity challenges.


  • Environmental Conservation Jobs: Developing eco-tourism, reforestation projects, and renewable energy industries can create jobs while preserving the environment.

  Example: Reforestation projects in Indonesia are creating jobs while preserving biodiversity.


  • Trade Inclusion: Strategic investments in transport and communication infrastructure, coupled with trade facilitation policies, can enable better market integration.

  Example: Investments in transport infrastructure in the Philippines are enabling better market integration.


Future Innovations
  • Agri-Tech Innovations: Enhancing Farming Techniques

  Data-Driven Agriculture: Using AI and analytics to optimise farming practices and predict crop yields can address income disparities in rural areas.

  IoT Devices: Deploying smart irrigation systems and sensors to monitor environmental conditions ensures efficient use of resources.

  Collaborative Platforms: Encouraging partnerships between governments, researchers, and industries to scale up digital agriculture technologies.


  • Community-Based Solutions: Reducing Poverty in Remote Communities

  Decentralized Resources: Offering mobile services such as healthcare units, traveling teachers, or pop-up markets to reach underserved areas.

  Community Agriculture Cooperatives: Encouraging the formation of cooperatives to share resources, knowledge, and profits among farmers in remote regions.

  Locally Driven Renewable Energy: Introducing small-scale solar, wind, or micro-hydro projects to empower communities and reduce energy costs.


  • Inclusive Economic Systems: Benefiting Marginalised Groups

  Shared Value Models: Encouraging businesses to adopt practices that deliver economic value while addressing societal challenges faced by marginalised communities.

  Access to Education and Skills Training: Expanding technical and vocational training programs for marginalised groups to enable their participation in economic growth.

  Rural-Urban Economic Linkages: Investing in transportation and digital infrastructure to connect rural areas with urban markets, ensuring equitable distribution of growth benefits.

Future Activites
  • Labor Market Integration: Retraining programs for displaced workers, especially in ageing industries, can ensure smooth transitions to emerging sectors.

  Example: Germany's "Kurzarbeit" system, which helps displaced workers transition into emerging industries. This program provides financial support and training opportunities for workers affected by economic downturns or structural shifts, allowing them to gain new skills while remaining employed part-time.


  • Social Safety Nets: Expanding and Improving Social Safety Nets Through Digitalization.

  Example: Conceptual Framework and Review of Country Experiences.


  • Promote Inclusivity: Targeted policies addressing minority rights and fostering cultural exchanges can improve social cohesion.

  Example: Cultural exchange programs in Central Asia are fostering social cohesion.


  • Energy Efficiency Programs: Incentivising energy-saving technologies and upgrading public infrastructure can achieve sustainability goals while creating jobs.

  Example: Incentives for energy-saving technologies in Western and Eastern Europe are creating jobs and achieving sustainability goals.


Future Activites
  • Address Inequalities: Introducing progressive taxation systems and strengthening social welfare programs can reduce income disparities. Advocacy for fair trade policies would also help.

  Example: Progressive taxation and social welfare programs in Brazil aim to reduce income disparities.


  • Strengthen Rural Economies: Encouraging agricultural cooperatives, improving rural infrastructure, and increasing market access can drive rural development.

  Example: Agricultural cooperatives in Colombia are improving market access and rural infrastructure.


  • Affordable Housing Initiatives: Utilising innovative building technologies and public-private partnerships can expand access to affordable housing.

  Example: Brazil’s Minha Casa, Minha Vida (My House, My Life) program, which collaborates with private developers to provide subsidized housing for low-income households. The program incorporates energy-efficient designs and modern construction techniques to enhance affordability and sustainability.


  • Education and Skills Development: Strengthening early childhood education and vocational training programs can improve future income opportunities.

  Example: Early childhood education programs in Chile are enhancing future income opportunities.


Future Innovations
  • Agri-Tech Innovations: Supporting Sustainable Agriculture

  Integrated Pest Management: Promoting eco-friendly pest control methods reduces environmental impact and supports biodiversity.

  Polyculture and Native Crops: Encouraging diverse farming systems and the use of native varieties enhances sustainability.

  Community Empowerment: Strengthening rural associations and providing training in entrepreneurial management fosters economic growth.


  • Community-Based Solutions: Urban Slums and Rural Regions

  Slum Redevelopment Partnerships: Working with residents to design affordable housing and basic amenities tailored to local needs.

  Rural Development Committees: Establishing bodies that prioritise local issues like access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.

  Youth Engagement Programs: Fostering empowerment through sports, arts, and vocational training to break cycles of poverty in both urban and rural settings.


  • Digital Financial Services: Reducing Barriers to Financial Inclusion

  Digital Wallets: Encouraging the use of digital wallets to provide marginalised communities with access to secure and convenient financial services.

  Fintech Partnerships: Collaborating with fintech companies to develop innovative solutions tailored to the needs of underserved populations.

  Financial Literacy Programs: Integrating digital tools with educational initiatives to improve financial literacy and empower users

Future Activites
  • Stabilize Fragile States: Resolving conflicts and fostering political stability require sustained international efforts, peacebuilding initiatives, and inclusive governance reforms.

  Example: Peacebuilding initiatives in Yemen and Syria focus on inclusive governance and conflict resolution.


  • Youth Employment: Investments in vocational training, startups, and tech-based solutions can address unemployment among youth. Collaboration with the private sector is vital for scalable solutions

  Example: The Sharjah Sustainable City project in the UAE promotes urban farming and vocational training.


  • Access to Clean Water and Sanitation: Targeted investments in water desalination plants, wastewater treatment, and rural water supply systems can deliver significant progress.

  Example: Investments in desalination plants in Saudi Arabia and wastewater treatment in Egypt are improving water access.


  • Energy Subsidy Reforms: Phasing out subsidies gradually, with transparent communication and compensatory social safety nets, can ensure public acceptance.

  Example: Gradual subsidy reforms in Jordan are paired with social safety nets to ensure public acceptance.


Future Innovations
  • Inclusive Economic Systems : Rebuilding Economies

  Microfinance for Conflict-Affected Areas: Providing small-scale financial services to enable individuals, especially women, to start or rebuild businesses.

  Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with private sector stakeholders to create job opportunities and rebuild infrastructure in post-conflict zones.

  Refugee Inclusion in Labor Markets: Developing frameworks that allow refugees and displaced persons to contribute to and benefit from local economies.

Future Activites
  • Affordable Housing: Expanding housing supply through zoning reforms and incentivizing affordable housing projects can address homelessness and housing insecurity.

  Example: Zoning reforms in Canada are increasing the housing supply.


  • Living Wage Legislation: Advocacy for a living wage, supported by research and coalition building, can ensure dignified earnings for all workers.

  Example: Advocacy groups in the U.S. are pushing for living wage policies to ensure dignified earnings.


  • Food Security Programs: Strengthening community-driven food banks and nutrition education programs can improve food security.

  Example: Strengthening community-driven food banks and nutrition education programs can improve food security.


  • Health Access Expansion: Streamlining insurance coverage and increasing investments in rural healthcare facilities can enhance access to medical services.

  Example: Streamlining insurance coverage and increasing investments in rural healthcare facilities can enhance access to medical services.


Future Innovations
  • Inclusive Economic Systems : Creating Equitable Opportunities

  Community Investment Funds: Channeling resources into underserved communities to support local businesses, affordable housing, and education.

  Workforce Development Programs: Offering training and apprenticeships tailored to the needs of marginalised groups, including Indigenous peoples and economically disadvantaged individuals.

  Living Wage Initiatives: Enforcing policies that ensure wages are sufficient to meet the basic needs of all workers.

Future Activites
  • Climate Resilience Measures: Strengthening climate adaptation infrastructure, such as seawalls and flood defenses, is essential. Investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind could reduce reliance on imported fuels.

  Example: The Joint SDG Fund supports climate adaptation projects like seawalls and renewable energy installations .


  • Tourism Sector Diversification: Diversifying industries beyond tourism—such as renewable energy, fisheries, and small-scale manufacturing—can provide economic stability.

  Example: Efforts in the Pacific Islands include promoting fisheries and small-scale manufacturing to reduce reliance on tourism.


  • Marine Resource Management: Sustainable fishing practices, marine protected areas, and capacity-building for local fishers can ensure long-term resource management.

  Example: Marine protected areas and sustainable fishing practices are being implemented in the Caribbean.


  • International Partnerships: Strengthening diplomatic ties and regional cooperation could secure more predictable and sustainable foreign aid.

  Example: The SAMOA Pathway fosters regional cooperation to secure sustainable foreign aid.


Future Innovations
  • Digital Financial Services: Improving Access to Global Markets

  Remittance Platforms: Enhancing digital remittance systems to reduce transaction costs and ensure timely transfers for families dependent on overseas income.

  E-Commerce Integration: Supporting small businesses in accessing global markets through digital payment gateways and online platforms.

  Digital Infrastructure Development: Investing in robust internet and mobile networks to enable widespread adoption of financial technologies.

Future Activites
  • Employment Generation: Large-scale job creation could focus on labor-intensive sectors like manufacturing, construction, and green energy. Incentivizing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to hire and train workers would help.

  Example: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) supports labor-intensive projects like transit-oriented development in Bengaluru, India, creating jobs and improving urban livability.


  • Female Empowerment: Addressing cultural barriers involves promoting gender-sensitive policies, education campaigns, and legal reforms. Encouraging female entrepreneurship through access to credit and mentorship programs is crucial.

  Example: Programs like SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association) in India provide credit and mentorship to female entrepreneurs.


  • Slum Upgradation: Upgrading informal settlements requires inclusive urban planning, access to affordable housing, and community-driven development initiatives.

  Example: The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in India focuses on affordable housing and urban planning.


  • Digital Financial Inclusion: Expanding access to mobile banking and digital payment platforms can empower rural and low-income populations. Partnerships between governments and telecom providers can close connectivity gaps.

  Example: Mobile banking initiatives in Bangladesh, supported by partnerships between telecom providers and governments, are closing connectivity gaps.


Future Innovations
  • Agri-Tech Innovations: Supporting Small-Scale Farmers

  Precision Agriculture: Implementing technologies like IoT sensors and drones to monitor soil health and optimise resource use can significantly improve productivity for small-scale farmers.

  Digital Platforms: Providing access to mobile-based advisory services and e-commerce platforms enables farmers to access markets, credit, and agronomic information.

  Climate-Resilient Crops: Promoting the use of genetically modified crops that are resistant to drought and pests can enhance resilience.


  • Community-Based Solutions: Empowering Grassroots Organizations

  Training Programs for Grassroots Leaders: Providing leadership and organisational skills to individuals running poverty alleviation initiatives.

  Collaborative Networks: Creating platforms where grassroots organisations can share knowledge, access funding, and coordinate efforts for greater impact.

  Gender Empowerment Projects: Supporting initiatives focused on empowering women through education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship in marginalised communities.


  • Digital Financial Services: Addressing Poverty in Rural Areas

  Mobile Banking: Expanding mobile banking services to rural areas enables individuals to access savings accounts, loans, and payment systems without needing physical bank branches.

  Digital Credit Solutions: Offering credit-scoring models based on mobile transaction data to provide loans to small businesses and farmers.

  Blockchain for Supply Chains: Using blockchain technology to ensure transparency and fair pricing in agricultural supply chains.

Future Activites
  • Expand Social Protection Systems: The lack of financial resources and infrastructure presents a significant challenge. Large-scale implementation requires innovative funding mechanisms, such as international aid, public-private partnerships, and leveraging mobile technology to reach underserved populations.

  Example: Kenya's M-Pesa mobile money platform has enabled cash transfers to vulnerable groups, improving financial inclusion.


  • Boost Agricultural Productivity: Addressing climate change vulnerabilities demands investment in resilient crop varieties, sustainable irrigation systems, and farmer training programs. Introducing mechanization and improved market access could drive productivity.

  Example: Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) focus on resilient crop varieties and farmer training to combat climate vulnerabilities.


  • Access to Basic Services: Overcoming geographic and governance challenges necessitates community-driven infrastructure projects and digital platforms for healthcare, education, and utility services. Building capacity at the local governance level is key.

  Example: The Samburu Project in Kenya provides clean water through well installations, improving health and education outcomes.


  • Capacity-Building for Local Economies: Empowering entrepreneurs through microfinance, skills training, and cooperative models can stimulate local economies. Tackling economic instability requires strengthening financial institutions and regulatory frameworks.

  Example: Microfinance initiatives like Grameen Foundation Africa empower entrepreneurs with skills and financial resources.


Future Innovations
  • Agri-Tech Innovations: Combating Food Insecurity

  Climate-Smart Agriculture: Techniques such as agroforestry, conservation farming, and rainwater harvesting help mitigate the effects of climate change and improve food security.

  Mobile Apps for Farmers: Leveraging digital tools to provide real-time weather updates, soil data, and farming best practices empowers agricultural workers.

  Sustainable Land Management: Encouraging practices like crop rotation and organic fertilisation maintains soil health and boosts productivity.


  • Community-Based Solutions: Localized Approaches to Rural Poverty

  Community-Led Development Projects: Involving rural communities in planning and execution to address specific needs, such as building schools, clinics, or irrigation systems.

  Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA): Establishing small-scale financial groups to offer accessible microloans and savings opportunities for rural residents.

  Capacity Building: Training community members in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and basic infrastructure maintenance to foster self-reliance.


  • Digital Financial Services: Empowering Small Businesses and Farmers

  Mobile Money Services: Platforms like M-Pesa have already demonstrated success in providing secure and accessible financial services to unbanked populations.

  Digital Credit Solutions: Offering credit-scoring models based on mobile transaction data to provide loans to small businesses and farmers.

  Blockchain for Supply Chains: Using blockchain technology to ensure transparency and fair pricing in agricultural supply chains.


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