Global Risks Forum 2025
Global Risks Alliance

Host Industry

Nexus Competence Cells (NCCs) are cutting-edge research units designed to drive responsible research and innovation (RRI) within the water-energy-food nexus. By hosting NCCs, industry leaders can leverage advanced Nexus Ecosystem technologies, extensive networks, and shared infrastructure to enhance cooperation, standardization, and acceleration in their sectors

Competence Cells

Nexus Competence Cells (NCCs) are innovative interdisciplinary units integrated within host industries aimed at driving responsible research and innovation (RRI)

Enhanced Innovation Capacity

  • Leveraging Nexus Ecosystem Technologies: Access to cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, IoT, and machine learning for innovative research and development.
  • Advanced Research Facilities: Utilization of state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers to drive technological advancements.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Bringing together experts from diverse fields to foster cross-disciplinary innovation.

Improved Risk Management

  • Predictive Analytics: Utilizing the Global Risks Index (GRIx) for comprehensive risk assessments and scenario analysis.
  • Real-Time Monitoring: Implementing IoT systems for continuous monitoring of critical processes and environmental conditions.
  • Informed Decision-Making: Employing data-driven approaches for proactive risk identification and mitigation.

Operational Efficiency

  • Optimized Resource Management: Applying AI and machine learning to streamline resource allocation and operational processes.
  • Sustainable Production Practices: Integrating the Micro-Production Model (MPM) to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
  • Blockchain for Supply Chain Transparency: Utilizing blockchain technology to ensure traceability and accountability in supply chains.

Access to Funding and Resources

  • Research Grants: Eligibility for grants and funding opportunities through GCRI and affiliated organizations.
  • Innovation Challenges: Participation in Nexus Ecosystem-sponsored competitions and hackathons with financial rewards.
  • Crowdfunding Platforms: Leveraging blockchain-based crowdfunding mechanisms for project financing.

Enhanced ESG Reporting

  • Transparent Reporting Systems: Implementing the Integrated Value Reporting System (iVRS) for accurate and transparent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting.
  • Compliance and Accountability: Ensuring adherence to global ESG standards and regulations through blockchain-based verification.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging stakeholders with comprehensive and credible ESG data.

Professional Development and Training

  • Continuous Learning Programs: Access to Integrated Learning Accounts (ILA) for ongoing professional development.
  • Customized Training Modules: Developing industry-specific training programs aligned with sustainability goals.
  • Certification and Badging: Offering digital certifications and badges for skill development and competency recognition.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

  • Community Outreach Initiatives: Implementing community-driven projects to foster local engagement and collaboration.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: Conducting campaigns to raise awareness about sustainability and risk management.
  • Participatory Research: Engaging community members in citizen science and participatory research projects.

Policy Advocacy and Influence

  • Evidence-Based Policy Development: Contributing to policy briefs and advocacy efforts based on rigorous research.
  • Participation in Policy Forums: Engaging in local, national, and international policy dialogues to influence regulations.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Forming alliances with policymakers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders for coordinated action.

Technological Integration and Advancement

  • Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: Establishing advanced infrastructure for research, development, and innovation.
  • Integration with Nexus Ecosystem Components: Seamlessly connecting with other Nexus Ecosystem tools and platforms.
  • Virtual Collaboration Environments: Utilizing virtual reality for remote collaboration and project development.

Long-Term Sustainability

  • Promoting Circular Economy: Adopting circular economy principles to enhance sustainability and resource efficiency.
  • Resilience Building: Developing strategies to enhance resilience against environmental, social, and economic challenges.
  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Aligning initiatives with global SDGs to contribute to broader sustainability efforts.

Competitive Advantage

  • Market Differentiation: Positioning as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and responsible research.
  • Brand Reputation: Enhancing brand value through demonstrated commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
  • Talent Attraction and Retention: Attracting top talent by offering opportunities for professional growth and meaningful impact.

Networking and Collaboration

  • Global Network Access: Connecting with a global network of experts, researchers, and industry leaders.
  • Collaborative Projects: Engaging in joint ventures and collaborative research with other Nexus Ecosystem participants.
  • Knowledge Exchange: Participating in forums, workshops, and conferences to share best practices and innovative solutions.

Incentives and Rewards

  • Integrated Credits Rewards System (iCRS): Earning credits for contributions to sustainability initiatives and innovation.
  • Recognition Programs: Recognizing and rewarding significant achievements and contributions.
  • Gamification: Utilizing gamification strategies to encourage participation and engagement in Nexus Ecosystem activities.

NCCs enhance risk management and security by utilizing predictive analytics and real-time monitoring systems to identify and mitigate risks proactively. They implement decentralized governance structures and smart contracts, ensuring transparent, secure, and efficient operations. Interdisciplinary research conducted by NCCs leads to innovative solutions that help businesses anticipate potential challenges, develop adaptive strategies, and ensure long-term resilience. By embedding these advanced practices within traditional business operations, NCCs significantly improve the company's ability to manage risks and maintain security.

Host industries can leverage NCCs to drive sustainable development by integrating advanced technologies and innovative practices into their operations. NCCs focus on developing solutions that promote resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and support long-term sustainability goals. By collaborating with NCCs, businesses can adopt sustainable practices that enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve their overall sustainability profile. This alignment with global sustainability standards not only benefits the environment but also enhances the company's market positioning and competitive advantage.

NCCs connect host industries with a vast network of experts, researchers, and industry leaders within the Global Risks Alliance. This facilitates knowledge exchange, collaborative research projects, and strategic partnerships. By engaging with NCCs, businesses can participate in global initiatives, access funding opportunities, and co-develop innovative solutions that address complex sustainability challenges. This collaborative environment fosters innovation, enhances problem-solving capabilities, and promotes the sharing of best practices across industries.

Hosting NCCs provides significant economic advantages, including cost savings through shared infrastructure and resources, access to diverse funding sources, and the creation of new revenue streams through the commercialization of research outputs. By adopting innovative and sustainable practices developed by NCCs, businesses can enhance their market positioning, attract customers and investors, and achieve long-term financial sustainability. Additionally, NCCs help businesses reduce operational costs, improve efficiency, and develop new products and services that drive revenue growth.

NCCs offer continuous learning and professional development opportunities for employees, enhancing their skills and capabilities. Through workshops, training sessions, and access to cutting-edge technologies, NCCs help build a more adaptable and innovative workforce. The presence of NCCs within a company attracts top talent by positioning the organization as a leader in innovation and sustainability. Additionally, NCCs provide opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange, further enhancing the professional development of employees and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

NCCs enhance corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives by engaging in community-driven projects and promoting active stakeholder involvement. By developing platforms for community participation in research and decision-making, NCCs foster transparency, trust, and positive social impact. This engagement not only strengthens the company’s reputation but also ensures that sustainability and innovation efforts are aligned with the needs and priorities of local communities. Through these initiatives, host industries can build stronger relationships with community members, enhance their social license to operate, and contribute to the overall well-being of the communities they serve.

  • Interdisciplinary research and innovation in sustainability and resilience
  • Data science and AI for complex systems analysis
  • Blockchain technology and decentralized systems
  • Community engagement and participatory research methodologies
  • Policy analysis and advocacy
  • Project management and stakeholder coordination
  • Fundraising and resource mobilization
  • Research outputs and citations in nexus-related fields
  • Patents and commercialized innovations
  • Funding secured for sustainability and resilience projects
  • Community engagement metrics and social impact assessments
  • Policy influence and adoption of recommended practices
  • Improvements in local and regional sustainability indicators
  • Educational program enrollment and graduate employment in relevant fields

Modular and Scalable Design:

  • Agile Modules: NCCs can be configured to fit the specific needs of any department or research project with modular, agile components.
  • Scalable Units: Flexible structure allows for easy scaling up or down to various research topics and interdisciplinary approaches.
  • Cloud-Based Solutions: Utilize cloud infrastructure to ensure scalability and flexibility in resource allocation.

Ad-Hoc Agile Unit Deployment:

  • Rapid Response: NCCs can be deployed on an ad-hoc basis to address emerging research needs or specific project requirements swiftly.
  • Quick Setup: Rapid integration and setup enable quick response to new research opportunities and challenges.
  • Mobile Labs: Develop mobile labs that can be quickly deployed to various locations for on-site research and collaboration.

Leveraging Nexus Ecosystem:

  • Advanced Tools: Utilize the Nexus Ecosystem’s advanced tools and frameworks, such as blockchain for transparency, AI for data analysis, and IoT for real-time monitoring.
  • RRI Principles: Ensure that all research activities adhere to the principles of epistemic Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI).
  • Digital Twins: Implement digital twin technology to simulate and optimize research processes and outcomes.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

  • Cross-Disciplinary Teams: Foster collaboration across diverse fields by bringing together experts from various disciplines in agile teams.
  • Innovative Problem-Solving: Encourage innovative thinking and problem-solving through interdisciplinary teamwork.
  • Hackathons and Challenges: Organize regular hackathons and innovation challenges to spur creative solutions to complex problems.

Sustainable Development and RRI Focus:

  • Sustainability Goals: Prioritize research that aligns with sustainable development goals and responsible research practices.
  • Holistic Integration: Integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations into all research activities.
  • Circular Economy: Promote circular economy principles in all projects to enhance resource efficiency and minimize waste.

Community and Policy Engagement:

  • Stakeholder Involvement: Engage with local communities and policymakers to ensure that research outcomes are relevant and impactful.
  • Participatory Research: Promote participatory research methodologies and community-driven projects.
  • Policy Advocacy: Influence policy development by providing evidence-based recommendations and engaging in policy dialogues.
Process Design
  • Program Increment (PI) Planning:

    • Agile Release Trains (ARTs): Utilize NCCs as Agile Release Trains (ARTs) to deliver value through program increments.
    • PI Planning Events: Conduct regular PI planning events to align all agile teams (NCCs) with the institution's strategic goals and synchronize project timelines.
    • Backlog Prioritization: Maintain a prioritized backlog of research initiatives to ensure focus on high-impact projects.
  • Lean-Agile Leadership:

    • Leadership Roles: Establish lean-agile leadership roles within NCCs to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
    • Empowerment: Empower cross-functional teams to make decisions, encouraging accountability and rapid iteration.
    • Servant Leadership: Adopt servant leadership principles to support and guide agile teams.
  • Value Stream Mapping:

    • Identify Value Streams: Map out value streams to identify how NCCs can create, deliver, and capture value within the institution.
    • Optimize Flow: Optimize the flow of work through NCCs to ensure efficient delivery of research outcomes.
    • Continuous Improvement: Implement continuous improvement practices to refine and enhance value streams.
  • Continuous Delivery Pipeline:

    • Automated Testing and Deployment: Implement continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) practices within NCCs.
    • Feedback Loops: Establish feedback loops to continuously refine and improve research processes and outputs.
    • DevOps Practices: Integrate DevOps practices to enhance collaboration between development and operations teams.
  • Agile Metrics and Reporting:

    • Performance Metrics: Develop agile metrics to track the performance and impact of NCCs, focusing on key indicators such as innovation velocity, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction.
    • Transparent Reporting: Utilize the Integrated Value Reporting System (iVRS) to provide transparent and real-time reporting on NCC activities and outcomes.
    • Data-Driven Decisions: Use data analytics to inform decision-making and optimize research strategies.
  • Utilizes utility tokens for accessing ecosystem resources and services
  • Implements smart contracts for automated resource allocation and reward distribution
  • Provides incentives for research, innovation, and community engagement
  • Facilitates cross-institutional collaboration and resource sharing
  • Enables transparent tracking of contributions and impact

Host institutions need:

  • High-performance computing infrastructure (min. 100 TFLOPS)
  • Secure, high-bandwidth internet connection (1 Gbps+)
  • Blockchain node capabilities (able to run Ethereum or equivalent)
  • Data storage capacity of at least 1 PB
  • Advanced cybersecurity measures including multi-factor authentication and encryption
  • Zero-knowledge proofs for privacy-preserving computations
  • Homomorphic encryption for secure data processing
  • Decentralized identity (DID) protocols
  • IPFS for distributed data storage
  • Regular security audits and penetration testing
  • Standardized APIs for data exchange
  • Federated learning protocols for collaborative AI model training
  • Decentralized storage solutions (IPFS) for shared datasets
  • Smart contracts for automated resource allocation and project management
  • On-chain voting mechanisms for key decisions
  • Multi-signature wallets for fund management
  • Reputation systems based on contribution metrics
  • Automated compliance checks through smart contracts
  • API connections to Student Information Systems
  • Blockchain-based credentialing compatible with Open Badges standard
  • LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability) compliant interfaces
  • AI-driven learning path recommendations based on blockchain-recorded competencies
  • Multi-core server (min. 32 cores)
  • 256 GB RAM
  • 10 TB NVMe storage
  • GPU acceleration (e.g., NVIDIA Tesla V100)
  • Redundant power supply and network connections
  • Merkle tree data structures for efficient verification
  • Chainpoint or similar blockchain anchoring for tamper-evident records
  • Multi-party computation for secure aggregation of sensitive data
  • AI-driven anomaly detection for real-time data validation

1. Go for Blockchain Core and Smart Contracts

Go (Golang) is a robust and efficient programming language ideal for developing blockchain core components and smart contracts. Known for its simplicity and performance, Go is widely used in leading blockchain projects like Ethereum (via Hyperledger Besu), Cosmos, and Polkadot. Go's concurrency model and garbage collection make it suitable for building scalable and high-performance blockchain systems.

Key Features:

  • Strong concurrency model using goroutines.
  • Efficient memory management with garbage collection.
  • Simplified syntax and a rich standard library.
  • High performance and scalability.

Use Cases:

  • Developing blockchain nodes and core infrastructure.
  • Implementing smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).

2. Python for Data Analysis and AI

Python is a versatile language extensively used for data analysis and artificial intelligence (AI). With powerful libraries such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, Python facilitates the development of AI models and data-driven applications. Its simplicity and readability make it a favorite among data scientists and AI researchers.

Key Libraries:

  • TensorFlow: An open-source library for machine learning and neural networks.
  • PyTorch: A deep learning library that provides flexible and easy-to-use tools for AI research.

Use Cases:

  • Data analysis and visualization in blockchain systems.
  • Developing AI models for predictive analytics and automated decision-making.

3. JavaScript/TypeScript for Front-End and Node.js Services

JavaScript and TypeScript are essential for developing responsive front-end interfaces and server-side services using Node.js. TypeScript, a superset of JavaScript, offers static typing, which helps in catching errors early and improving code quality. These languages are crucial for building user interfaces, web applications, and API services in the blockchain ecosystem.

Key Features:

  • JavaScript: Dynamic typing, first-class functions, and widespread browser support.
  • TypeScript: Static typing, improved code maintainability, and compatibility with JavaScript.

Use Cases:

  • Building intuitive and interactive user interfaces for blockchain applications.
  • Developing back-end services and APIs using Node.js.

4. Rust for Performance-Critical Components

Rust is a systems programming language known for its memory safety, performance, and concurrency capabilities. It is particularly suited for performance-critical components in blockchain systems. Rust's ownership model ensures memory safety without needing a garbage collector, making it an ideal choice for low-level blockchain development.

Key Features:

  • Memory safety without garbage collection.
  • High performance and zero-cost abstractions.
  • Concurrency and parallelism support.
  • Strong static typing and compile-time error checking.

Use Cases:

  • Developing high-performance blockchain nodes and consensus algorithms.
  • Implementing secure and efficient smart contracts.

5. R for Statistical Analysis

R is a language and environment specifically designed for statistical computing and graphics. It is extensively used for data analysis, statistical modeling, and visualization, making it valuable for analyzing blockchain data and deriving insights.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive statistical and graphical techniques.
  • Extensive package ecosystem for various statistical analyses.
  • Strong data manipulation and visualization capabilities.

Use Cases:

  • Performing statistical analysis on blockchain transaction data.
  • Visualizing blockchain network metrics and trends.
  • Cross-chain communication protocols (e.g., Polkadot parachains)
  • Atomic swaps for token exchanges
  • Oracles for external data integration (e.g., Chainlink)
  • Standardized asset representation (e.g., ERC-20 equivalent)
  • Proposal submission and community review
  • Testnet deployment and thorough testing
  • Gradual rollout with canary releases
  • Automated and manual security audits
  • Coordinated network-wide upgrade through smart contract governance

Decentralized Production

MPM facilitates decentralized production by allowing industries to establish multiple micro-production units. These units can be strategically located near markets or raw material sources, reducing transportation costs and lead times. Decentralizing production empowers local communities and smaller manufacturing units, boosting local economies and ensuring more resilient and adaptable production processes.

  • Establishes multiple micro-production units near markets or raw material sources
  • Reduces transportation costs and lead times
  • Empowers local communities and smaller manufacturing units
  • Boosts local economies
  • Ensures more resilient and adaptable production processes

Advanced Technologies and Innovation

Industries can incorporate advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, and blockchain into micro-production units. These technologies enhance production efficiency, enable real-time monitoring, and ensure quality control. MPM encourages the creation of innovation hubs within industry facilities, serving as testing grounds for new technologies and production methods. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. The flexible nature of MPM allows industries to quickly prototype and test new products, enabling faster responses to market demands and reducing time-to-market for new products.

  • Incorporates IoT, AI, and blockchain technologies
  • Enhances production efficiency and real-time monitoring
  • Ensures quality control
  • Creates innovation hubs within industry facilities
  • Serves as testing grounds for new technologies and methods
  • Fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation
  • Allows quick prototyping and testing of new products
  • Enables faster responses to market demands
  • Reduces time-to-market for new products

Resource Efficiency and Sustainability

MPM integrates circular economy principles by promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction. Industries can implement closed-loop systems within micro-production units to recycle materials and minimize waste. Adopting sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources and environmentally friendly materials, reduces the environmental impact and enhances the sustainability profile of the industry. Decentralized micro-production units can optimize energy use by leveraging local renewable energy sources and implementing energy-efficient technologies, reducing the overall carbon footprint of the production process.

  • Promotes resource efficiency and waste reduction
  • Implements closed-loop systems to recycle materials
  • Minimizes waste
  • Adopts sustainable practices with renewable energy sources
  • Uses environmentally friendly materials
  • Reduces environmental impact
  • Enhances sustainability profile of the industry
  • Optimizes energy use with local renewable energy sources
  • Implements energy-efficient technologies
  • Reduces overall carbon footprint of production

Collaboration and Network Building

MPM encourages collaboration with local communities and stakeholders. Industries can involve community members in production processes, fostering a sense of ownership and promoting local economic development. Forming strategic partnerships and alliances with other businesses, research institutions, and local governments supports micro-production initiatives, enhances innovation, shares resources, and drives collective growth. By decentralizing production, industries can create more resilient and responsive supply chains. Localized production units can quickly adapt to changes in demand and supply, reducing disruptions and improving overall supply chain efficiency.

  • Encourages collaboration with local communities and stakeholders
  • Involves community members in production processes
  • Fosters a sense of ownership
  • Promotes local economic development
  • Forms strategic partnerships and alliances
  • Collaborates with businesses, research institutions, and local governments
  • Supports micro-production initiatives
  • Enhances innovation and shares resources
  • Drives collective growth
  • Creates resilient and responsive supply chains
  • Adapts quickly to changes in demand and supply
  • Reduces disruptions and improves supply chain efficiency

Financial and Operational Benefits

MPM reduces production costs by lowering transportation and logistics expenses, minimizing waste, and optimizing resource use. Decentralized production units reduce the need for large central manufacturing facilities, lowering capital expenditures. The modular nature of MPM allows industries to scale production up or down based on market demands, ensuring quick responses to changing market conditions and consumer preferences. Implementing advanced technologies and efficient production methods enhances productivity and reduces downtime. Real-time monitoring and data analytics enable industries to identify and address production issues promptly.

  • Reduces production costs by lowering transportation and logistics expenses
  • Minimizes waste and optimizes resource use
  • Reduces need for large central manufacturing facilities
  • Lowers capital expenditures
  • Scales production up or down based on market demands
  • Responds quickly to changing market conditions and consumer preferences
  • Enhances productivity and reduces downtime
  • Uses real-time monitoring and data analytics
  • Identifies and addresses production issues promptly

Compliance and Regulation

MPM ensures compliance with industry standards and regulations by integrating automated quality control and monitoring systems. Industries can maintain high standards of production quality and safety. Decentralized production units can navigate local regulatory environments more effectively, working closely with local authorities to ensure compliance and leverage local incentives for sustainable practices.

  • Ensures compliance with industry standards and regulations
  • Integrates automated quality control and monitoring systems
  • Maintains high standards of production quality and safety
  • Navigates local regulatory environments effectively
  • Works closely with local authorities for compliance
  • Leverages local incentives for sustainable practices

World-class Features

Unlock the potential of your institution by establishing Nexus Competence Cells (NCCs). Harness advanced technologies like blockchain, AI, and IoT combined with decentralized governance to drive transformative research, groundbreaking innovation, and dynamic community engagement. These pioneering cells employ smart contracts for streamlined operations, predictive analytics for strategic insights, and real-time monitoring for proactive risk management

Have questions?