P2C Matchmaking Accelerator 

The Partner2Connect (P2C) platform has united 470+ multistakeholder entities globally, resulting in over 1000 initiatives across 148 countries with a combined value of over USD 70 billion. Over the past four years, P2C has played a pivotal role in advancing universal and meaningful connectivity and sustainable digital transformation, inspiring stakeholders to contribute to the global digital agenda. The Partner2Connect (P2C) platform has played a pivotal role in encouraging, celebrating, and advancing initiatives focused on achieving universal and meaningful connectivity, and sustainable digital transformation. By showcasing these achievements, P2C has inspired other actors to take action and contribute to the global digital agenda.

The P2C Matchmaking Accelerator sessions are the next phase of this endeavour. Designed to leverage the P2C community, their existing commitments, and the convening power of the ITU, these sessions aim to align current pledges with each country’s long-term digital transformation strategy. The objective is to accelerate the implementation of these initiatives by fostering collaboration, sharing challenges, and identifying opportunities for partnerships. The theme of a Matchmaking Accelerator session can be based on a geographic region or country (e.g. South Africa, or Caribbean region), or can be based on a specific theme as per the P2C Action Framework (e.g. digital skills).

Partner2Connect is all about collaboration. At its core, P2C believes that connectivity, inclusion, and innovation grow stronger through partnerships. The Matchmaking Accelerator session provides a space for honest and strategic exchange. Participants are invited to bring ideas and solutions while government representatives present national strategies and long-term visions. The goal is to spark new alliances and strengthen existing ones in an intimate, results-driven conversation. This is a platform for accelerating connections and surfacing partnerships that may not be immediately obvious.

The structure of a typical Matchmaking Accelerator session would be based on the following:


Welcome and Introduction
The session will begin with a welcome from the Moderator (representing ITU and P2C), who will introduce the session, explain the agenda, and outline the goals.

  • A brief explanation of what the P2C platform is—and what it is not—will be provided.
  • The session will operate under Chatham House Rules: comments are not for public attribution, though the session will be recorded for archival purposes.


Opening Remarks
Key government representatives will present an overview of the region or country’s Digital Transformation Agenda 2030, highlighting national priorities and expectations, and any P2C pledges that the government(s) have already made. The following officials could be invited to give remarks:

  • Relevant Regional Government Authority
  • Minister of Information and Communications Technology or Regulatory Authority or any other relevant Ministry
  • Investment Promotion Agency Representative

An ideal second Opening Remark would be provided by a relevant UN partner. Examples could include the UN Resident Coordinator or UN agency key to the session theme. An opportunity also exists to select Joint SDG Fund Digital Transformation Window countries, which would align the matchmaking of P2C pledges as per the Joint SDG Fund country digital transformation strategy.


Pledgers’ Interventions
Following the opening remarks, 3-4 of the most impactful pledgers will present their progress and share how their projects align with the government’s digital agenda. These interventions will focus on:

  • Updates on their specific pledges.
  • How these initiatives are supporting the country’s digital goals.
  • Key challenges they are encountering during implementation.


Open Discussion
An open floor discussion will follow, where participants can share their experiences, raise questions, and discuss their own pledges. This segment aims for frank, respectful dialogue where participants:

  • Discuss barriers to implementation.
  • Share best practices and successful approaches.
  • Explore potential partnerships and synergies.

Optionally virtual breakout rooms could be used depending on the number of participants and the session theme.


Moderator’s Role
The Moderator will play a critical role in managing the discussion, summarizing key points, and ensuring that all voices are heard. They will also ensure that questions are directed to the appropriate panelists for further discussion.

Closing Remarks
The session will close with a summary of the key points discussed, delivered by the Moderator or a high-level government representative and/or UN partner. The closing remarks will also:

  • Outline next steps and follow-up actions for participants.
  • Reiterate the importance of ongoing collaboration and partnership building.

Key Takeaways:

  • The P2C Matchmaking Accelerator will serve as a neutral platform to foster partnerships and support countries in achieving their digital transformation goals.
  • Participants will gain practical insights into overcoming implementation challenges while exploring opportunities for collaboration.
  • Clear, actionable follow-up steps will be established to ensure the continuity of progress beyond the session.

Stay tuned for more information.