UN Armenia at Sevan Startup Summit 2025: Inspiring Action for a Sustainable Future

From 20-26 July, UN Armenia proudly joined forces with the Sevan Startup Summit (SSS) 2025, the region’s flagship platform for innovation and entrepreneurship. Lake Sevan became a vibrant hub of ideas and solutions, where changemakers, founders, and young leaders came together to reimagine a sustainable future.

As part of our partnership, we supported three landmark events - the first-ever Greenovate Youth Summit, the Sevan Agritech Summit, and the Impact Innovation Summit. Each gathering brought together passionate innovators and thought leaders, proving that impact is no longer optional - it is essential for progress, justice, and opportunity for all.

The Greenovate Youth Summit brought together changemakers, experts, and - most importantly - youth to spark meaningful conversations and inspire youth leaders and young entrepreneurs to pursue solutions in conservation, restoration, and sustainability. The event was co-organized by the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Armenia, UN Armenia, Startup Armenia Foundation, Environment Group LLC, and the American University of Armenia (AUA) Acopian Center for the Environment.

The UN Secretary-General’s Climate Speech set the tone, reminding participants that “the clean energy era is here - let’s accelerate it to power progress, justice, and opportunity for all.”

UN Resident Coordinator Francoise Jacob opened the Greenovate Youth Summit, encouraging young people to take the lead in shaping global environmental solutions - a crucial step as Armenia prepares to host COP17 on Biodiversity in 2026. Later, during an intimate Campfire Talk, the RC shared personal reflections in a session titled “Barefoot into the Wild: Investing Personally, Committing Professionally.” The discussion sparked an inspiring exchange with founders about connecting deeply with nature’s urgent signals and responding with bold, fresh ideas.

As part of the Sevan Agritech Summit, WFP showcased its work to boost agricultural efficiency and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers through innovative approaches, while FAO played a key role in supporting the summit’s organization and knowledge exchange. Together, they underscored the importance of sustainable agriculture and technology-driven solutions to strengthen Armenia’s food systems and rural economies.

Throughout the Summit, UN Armenia stood alongside visionary entrepreneurs who are redefining business as a force for good - proving that creating impact also reduces risks, builds trust, retains talent, and strengthens loyalty.

Our partnership with SSS 2025 was more than participation - it was about walking the talk, supporting innovation that benefits both people and the planet, and empowering Armenia’s bright minds to drive solutions for a sustainable future.