The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a global call for its Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026, offering students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting digital transformation and innovation in international development.
This home-based internship is organized by the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) and is open to applicants worldwide. Selected interns will contribute to projects related to digital transformation, artificial intelligence, data governance, innovation policy, and technology for sustainable development.
The internship lasts three months and offers a flexible start date throughout 2026, making it a great opportunity for individuals interested in applying technology and innovation to global development challenges.
About UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme is the development agency of the United Nations, working in more than 170 countries and territories. The organization focuses on tackling global challenges such as poverty reduction, climate change, democratic governance, renewable energy, crisis response, and gender equality.
As part of its Strategic Plan 2026–2029, UNDP emphasizes the importance of digital technologies, data, and artificial intelligence as key tools to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Within this framework, the Digital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub acts as UNDP’s central platform for advancing digital transformation, inclusive innovation, and AI-driven development solutions across its global operations.
Internship Overview
- Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Programme: Digital, AI and Innovation Internship
- Location: Home-Based (Remote)
- Duration: 3 months
- Schedule: Full-time
- Language Requirement: Fluency in English
- Application Deadline: 1 October 2026
- Application Type: Rolling applications throughout 2026
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and successful candidates may be contacted anytime between April and the end of 2026.
Key Areas of Work
Interns will support the Digital, AI and Innovation Hub in several thematic areas.
1. Systems Transformation & Innovation
Interns may:
- Conduct research on innovation policies and systems transformation
- Analyze emerging global trends in technology and governance
- Support the design and documentation of innovative development solutions
- Contribute to knowledge products on policy innovation and system change
2. Programme Delivery & Capacity Building
Responsibilities may include:
- Supporting digital and AI initiatives in UNDP country offices
- Developing training materials and toolkits for governments and partners
- Assisting in webinars, learning sessions, and training programs
- Supporting national digital and AI strategies
3. Data Policy & Governance
Tasks may involve:
- Researching data governance frameworks and data protection policies
- Drafting policy briefs on responsible data use and digital rights
- Tracking international discussions on data governance and digital regulation
4. Data Analytics & Insights
Interns may:
- Collect, clean, and analyze datasets
- Build data dashboards and visualizations
- Support monitoring and evaluation processes
- Transform analytical findings into actionable insights
5. Partnerships & Strategic Communications
Work in this area may include:
- Identifying potential partners such as technology companies, foundations, and NGOs
- Drafting concept notes, proposals, and communication materials
- Supporting UNDP engagement in global digital and innovation discussions
- Producing content for blogs, newsletters, and social media
6. Process Efficiency & Resource Management
Interns may:
- Track project workplans and milestones
- Develop internal guidance, dashboards, and operational tools
- Help identify operational improvements within the DAI Hub
7. Digital Product Design & AI Tools
Interns may contribute to:
- Designing digital products such as apps, platforms, and AI tools
- Supporting development teams and product managers
- Conducting user testing and product improvements
- Assisting with implementation of digital products in countries
8. Research & Knowledge Management
Tasks may include:
- Conducting research on digital development and AI
- Maintaining content on internal platforms like SparkBlue and SharePoint
- Preparing knowledge summaries and briefing materials
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in a graduate degree program, or
- Be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree, or
- Have graduated within the last year before starting the internship.
Additional requirements include:
- Fluency in English
- Strong research and analytical skills
- Interest in digital development, AI, data policy, or innovation
- Ability to work independently and in a fast-paced environment
- Good communication and teamwork skills
Internship Benefits
According to the United Nations Development Programme internship policy:
- Interns receive a monthly stipend (amount varies depending on location).
- Remote internships may be prorated based on working arrangements.
- Interns must cover their own travel, insurance, and personal expenses.
- Interns must provide proof of health insurance.
Although interns are not considered UNDP staff members, the program offers valuable professional exposure to global development projects and digital innovation initiatives.
Application Process
Candidates must complete two steps:
- Submit the application through the UNDP vacancy portal.
- Complete the additional Airtable application form required by the Digital, AI and Innovation Hub.
Applicants must submit:
- A brief cover letter in English
- A current CV in English
- The completed Airtable application form
Applications are accepted until 30 September 2026, with the official posting closing on 1 October 2026.
