Impact Stars | Global Lighthouse Network

A global signal of where tomorrow is already operational

The Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains Impact Stars is the World Economic Forum’s platform for discovering breakthrough operational innovations shaping the future of manufacturing and supply chains.

The program identifies and amplifies novel operational use cases that have progressed beyond concept into real-world deployment. Whether leveraging frontier technologies, new operating models, workforce innovations or sustainability approaches, these use cases provide early signals of where manufacturing and supply chains are heading and how industrial transformation may unfold.

While the Global Lighthouse Network (GLN) showcases sites that have achieved transformation at enterprise scale, Impact Stars spotlights the emerging innovations that could become tomorrow's best practices. Together, they provide a unique view of both the future direction of industry and the pathways to achieve it

What makes an impact star solution

An Impact Star is an innovative operational solution that signals a meaningful shift in how industries, organizations and work are evolving. The recognition identifies innovations that are not only technologically advanced but already operating in real environments with the potential to influence the future at scale. The solution must show credible operational deployment in real environments, with responsible consideration for people, industry and broader societal impact.

Impact Star solutions are assessed across three defining dimensions:

Paradigm shift

Introducing fundamentally new approaches, value creation models or cross-industry applications that challenge conventional industry norms.

Novelty and uniqueness

Demonstrating distinctive technological innovation, first-of-its-kind implementation or a differentiated application of emerging technologies within an industry.

Reconfigured operating models

Redefining how decisions are made, how work is structured, and how organizations operate through automation, augmentation and new workforce models.

Global recognition

Position your organization as a future builder and movement maker driving positive and responsible impact to the world

Future movement intelligence

Gain early visibility into emerging industry shifts and become a reference model others watch before they become mainstream.

Strategic connections

Engage with technology pioneers and disruptors to unlock new partnerships and collaborations.

Attract future-focused talent

Enhance your positioning as a destination for top talent passionate about innovation, technology and the future of work, industry and society.

Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains
Impact Stars

A global signal of where tomorrow is already operational

What makes an impact star solution

Paradigm shift

Novelty and uniqueness

Reconfigured operating models

Benefits of joining

Global recognition

Future movement intelligence

Strategic connections

Attract future-focused talent

Frequently asked questions

Why was Impact Stars created?

What types of solutions can be recognized?

How is Impact Star different from the Global Lighthouse Network recognition?

Can the same organization participate in multiple recognition programs?

Who can apply?

What stage of maturity is required?

Can organizations submit more than one application?

What does Impact Stars evaluate?

Are there minimum requirements?

Does a solution need to be large-scale?

What type of evidence should be submitted?

How long does the application take?

Who should complete the application?

Is there a cost to apply?

An initiative of the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains

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