Global Compact LEAD companies are identified annually for high levels of engagement as a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact. Participation in the UN Global Compact at the LEAD-eligible level provides a unique opportunity to be recognized for commitment, to lead to a new era of sustainability.

By bringing committed companies together with relevant experts and stakeholders in Action Platforms, the UN Global Compact provides a collaborative space to generate and implement advanced corporate sustainability practice. As a highly engaged part of the UN Global Compact, Global Compact LEAD companies are uniquely positioned to inspire widespread uptake of sustainability solutions among businesses around the world.

See LEAD Participants

To be eligible for LEAD status, companies must:

1. Participate in at least two Action Platforms to demonstrate the company’s engagement with the UN Global Compact and commitment to defining and fostering leadership practices in line with the Ten Principles and Global Goals; and
2. Submit an Advanced Communication on Progress (CoP) — an annual sustainability report detailing progress on implementing the Ten Principles — within the same calendar year.

Global Compact LEAD companies enjoy the following benefits::

• Launch of the annual list of Global Compact LEAD companies at the UN Global Compact Leaders Summit
• Opportunities to join the multi-stakeholder Expert Network and offer advise to the UN Global Compact on programmatic priorities
• Consideration for speaking opportunities at UN Global Compact events

LEAD is a platform for highly-engaged Participants of the UN Global Compact. It does not constitute a ranking or recognition of sustainability performance. However, the UN Global Compact reserves the right to no longer engage with a company in one or more Action Platforms if its continued inclusion is deemed a risk to the integrity and reputation of the initiative and its participants. In this event, the company will no longer fulfill the eligibility criteria for LEAD and its name will be removed from the list of Participants in the platform.

Learn more about our Action Platforms