Programme

G-STIC Brussels opens with a high-level plenary session marking the launch of G-STIC 3.0 and a new phase of global collaboration on sustainable innovation. As the opening session of the conference, it sets the direction for the day around one central question: how do we align innovation, policy and finance in support of scalable impact? 

Policymakers, researchers, industry leaders and financiers will reflect on how technological innovation can be better connected to decision-making and real-world deployment. In a world facing growing complexity and fragmentation, the discussion will highlight the need for more coherent, system-level approaches and frame the key questions guiding the rest of the conference. 

It sets the tone for a day of interactive dialogue, co-creation and reflection – inviting participants not only to engage, but to actively contribute to shaping the future direction of G-STIC 3.0 as a neutral, science-based platform in this evolving landscape. 

In an increasingly fragmented global landscape, multilateral cooperation on science, technology and innovation (STI) matters more than ever. This spotlight session features a high-level fireside dialogue with Prof. Motoko Kotani and Prof. Carlos Henrique de Brito Cruz, members of the United Nations 10-Member Group supporting the Technology Facilitation Mechanism. 

Guided by the vision of G-STIC 3.0, the session will explore where the global STI ecosystem still falls short - particularly in bridging innovation, policy and finance, and in turning knowledge into real-world, scalable impact. It will also consider how platforms like G-STIC can help address these gaps as neutral, science-based enablers of coherence, better decision-making and faster deployment of sustainable solutions.