Transforming hospital care for 30 million vulnerable newborns, who are currently being left behind, is a smart investment which will unlock substantial human capital. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including universal health coverage (UHC), by 2030 requires action now to provide care for all small and sick newborns. Survive and thrive: transforming care for every small and sick newborn, focuses on the world’s most vulnerable newborns. It outlines the global problem, showcases progress, summarizes what can be done to transform inpatient care for small and sick newborns, and demonstrates the importance of data to guide investment and improve quality and equity. The report contributes to achieving the objectives set out in The global strategy for women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health (2016–2030) and builds on the momentum of Every newborn: an action plan to end preventable deaths. It presents a clear call to action to accelerate progress towards the SDGs to ensure every newborn has the chance to live a healthy and productive life.