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Purpose This study explores how Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) engage in networks to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Despite growing involvement in sustainability collaborations, research on HEI networks remains fragmented, with most studies limited to single cases or regional scopes, leaving their global landscape and collective impact underexplored. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive, global overview of HEI-led and HEI-involved networks, examining their structure, strategic focus and alignment with the 2030 Agenda. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts a two-step research design. First, a systematic review of peer-reviewed review articles indexed in Web of Science and Scopus is conducted to identify sustainability-oriented HEI networks discussed in the literature and to compile a comprehensive list of active initiatives. Second, a qualitative content analysis of network websites is carried out to examine network composition, geographical scale and patterns of SDG engagement. Findings The analysis mapped 62 active HEI networks, primarily operating at global and national levels. While collaboration is expanding beyond academia to include governments, healthcare and community, sustainability efforts are predominantly focused on socioeconomic goals. Environmental priorities, such as land, water and biodiversity, are underrepresented, revealing an emerging imbalance across the three domains of sustainable development. Originality/value This study provides a global overview of HEI networks addressing the SDGs. It highlights current patterns, gaps and emerging trends, offering HEIs and policymakers’ actionable insights on how networks can enhance impact, strengthen collaborations and balance sustainability strategies across scales.
Macaione et al. (2026) studied this question.