AI Internship

Digital, AI and Innovation Internship: Global Call for 2026 – UNDP

Remote Global Internship Opportunity

Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Job Title: Digital, AI and Innovation Internship: Global Call for 2026
Location: Remote / Global
Job Type: Internship
Application Deadline: 30 September 2026
Start Date: Flexible and needs-based
Experience: Interest or experience in a relevant workstream is desirable
Education: Undergraduate final-year students, graduate students, and recent university graduates
Stipend: Monthly stipend, with the amount varying according to duty location
Application Method: UNDP Vacancy Link + Airtable Application Form

About the United Nations Development Programme

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the development arm of the United Nations, working across more than 170 countries and territories.

UNDP works on major global development challenges, including poverty reduction, climate change, governance, renewable energy, crisis prevention, women’s empowerment, digital transformation and sustainable development.

As digital technologies and artificial intelligence continue to transform economies, governments and public services, UNDP is expanding its work in digitalization, data, innovation and AI to support inclusive and sustainable development.

The Digital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub serves as UNDP’s central platform for advancing systems transformation, inclusive digitalization and innovation across its development work.

The Hub brings together expertise in:

• Systems transformation
• Digital public infrastructure
• Data and artificial intelligence
• Innovation
• Capacity development
• Digital product design
• Digital transformation
• Policy and governance

Through this internship programme, successful candidates may contribute to projects supporting governments, UNDP Country Offices, development partners and other stakeholders around the world.

Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026

UNDP is inviting applications for its Digital, AI and Innovation Internship: Global Call for 2026.

This is a global internship opportunity designed for motivated students and recent graduates interested in digital technology, artificial intelligence, data, innovation, policy, research, communications, product development and international development.

Successful interns may work remotely and contribute to one or more areas of the Digital, AI and Innovation Hub.

The internship provides an opportunity to gain practical experience working on digital and development initiatives within a major United Nations organization.

Internship Workstreams

Applicants may support one or more of the following workstreams.

1. Systems Transformation & Innovation

Interns working in this area may:

• Conduct research on systems transformation and innovation.
• Draft analytical content on emerging policy approaches.
• Research global and regional trends affecting policy innovation and system change.
• Contribute to horizon scanning activities.
• Support the design and documentation of innovative policy and programme approaches.
• Help test and refine innovative approaches aimed at system-level change.
• Collect, curate and disseminate knowledge products.
• Support thought leadership activities related to innovation and systems transformation.
• Help align regional innovation efforts and identify opportunities to scale successful approaches.

2. Programme Delivery & Capacity Building

Responsibilities may include:

• Supporting digital, data and AI initiatives with UNDP Country Offices.
• Developing capacity-building materials for governments and development partners.
• Supporting activities related to national digital, data and AI strategies.
• Preparing practical toolkits and guidance notes.
• Developing implementation resources for Country Offices.
• Organizing webinars, training sessions and learning activities.
• Supporting delivery of digital and AI capacity-building programmes.

3. Data Policy & Governance

Interns interested in data policy may:

• Research data governance frameworks.
• Research data protection and responsible data use.
• Support the development of national data strategies.
• Contribute to data governance frameworks.
• Draft policy briefs and background notes.
• Prepare analytical summaries on data-related topics.
• Monitor global and multilateral developments in data and digital governance.
• Support UNDP’s work on data policy and digital rights.
• Research emerging issues affecting responsible use of data and technology.

4. Data Analytics & Insights

This workstream may involve:

• Collecting quantitative and qualitative datasets.
• Cleaning and preparing data for analysis.
• Conducting data analysis.
• Creating dashboards and trackers.
• Developing data visualizations.
• Supporting monitoring and reporting activities.
• Analyzing implementation of digital strategies.
• Supporting monitoring and evaluation processes.
• Translating data findings into concise and actionable insights.

Applicants with data analysis, database, visualization or reporting skills may find this workstream particularly relevant.

5. Partnerships & Strategic Communications

Responsibilities may include:

• Researching potential technology partners.
• Identifying foundations, nonprofits, alliances and other potential partners.
• Identifying new partnership opportunities.
• Supporting partner engagement.
• Drafting concept notes.
• Preparing communications materials.
• Supporting proposal development.
• Preparing pitch decks and project documents.
• Supporting Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
• Preparing outreach materials.
• Participating in global and multilateral processes.
• Supporting UN interagency engagement.
• Drafting statements and speeches.
• Helping organize meetings and events.
• Conducting research on emerging technology and digital development issues.
• Supporting UNDP thought leadership activities.
• Creating content for social media, newsletters, blogs and internal platforms.
• Researching media outlets and potential content partners.
• Tracking relevant and emerging digital technology topics.

6. Process Efficiency & Resource Management

Interns may support:

• Project workplans.
• Project milestones.
• Deliverable tracking.
• HR planning.
• Procurement processes.
• Resourcing activities.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Internal guidance documents.
• Operational trackers.
• Dashboards.
• Planning and monitoring of operational resources.
• Reporting activities.
• Identification of operational inefficiencies.
• Process improvement initiatives.

7. Product Design, Build & Management

This workstream focuses on digital products, platforms and AI-enabled tools.

Interns may:

• Participate in the design of digital products.
• Support development of apps and web applications.
• Contribute to AI tool development.
• Work with client teams to define product requirements.
• Help establish product success criteria.
• Support scoping of new digital products.
• Contribute to proposals for digital product development.
• Work with software developers and product managers.
• Support digital product implementation.
• Conduct user testing.
• Identify opportunities for product improvements.
• Assist with implementation of digital products in different countries.
• Work with local implementation teams and UNDP thematic teams.
• Support quality delivery and achievement of project outcomes.

Applicants with backgrounds in software development, product management, UX, AI, web development or digital technology may be particularly interested in this workstream.

8. Research & Knowledge Management

Responsibilities may include:

• Maintaining UNDP knowledge platforms.
• Updating content on platforms such as SparkBlue and SharePoint.
• Conducting desk research.
• Researching digital, data and AI topics.
• Synthesizing research findings.
• Preparing knowledge products.
• Drafting knowledge summaries.
• Preparing background notes.
• Developing briefing materials.
• Supporting internal newsletters.
• Curating digital and data-related knowledge products.
• Maintaining knowledge repositories.
• Managing content for digital guides.
• Supporting internal knowledge databases.
• Coordinating dissemination of research and thought leadership materials.

Competencies

UNDP is looking for candidates who demonstrate the following competencies:

Achieve Results

• Plan and monitor your own work.
• Pay attention to detail.
• Deliver high-quality work within deadlines.

Think Innovatively

• Be open to creative ideas.
• Identify and understand potential risks.
• Apply practical problem-solving approaches.
• Look for ways to improve existing processes.

Learn Continuously

• Remain open-minded and curious.
• Share knowledge with colleagues.
• Learn from mistakes.
• Seek and respond positively to feedback.

Adapt with Agility

• Adapt to changing circumstances.
• Handle ambiguity and uncertainty constructively.
• Remain flexible when priorities change.

Act with Determination

• Demonstrate motivation and drive.
• Remain calm when facing challenges.
• Show confidence and commitment.

Engage and Partner

• Demonstrate understanding and compassion.
• Build positive professional relationships.
• Collaborate effectively with others.

Enable Diversity and Inclusion

• Respect differences.
• Recognize unconscious bias.
• Support an inclusive working environment.
• Challenge discrimination.

Other Desired Skills

Candidates should ideally demonstrate some of the following:

• Database management skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Administrative or office management experience.
• Willingness to learn new skills.
• Ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical work.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to work collaboratively.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to manage complex situations.
• Ability to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Ability to balance long-term projects with urgent tasks.
• Ability to collaborate and achieve actionable results.
• Strong multitasking skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Positive and constructive approach to work.

Education & Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must meet one of the following educational requirements:

Option 1 – Graduate Programme

Be currently enrolled in a graduate school programme leading to a second university degree or equivalent, or a higher degree.

Option 2 – Final-Year Undergraduate

Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme at a minimum bachelor’s level or equivalent.

Option 3 – Recent University Graduate

Have graduated with a first university degree, second university degree or equivalent/higher qualification and, if selected, be able to commence the internship within one year of graduation.

Interest or experience in one of the Digital, AI and Innovation workstreams is desirable.

Application Requirements

Applicants should prepare:

• A brief cover letter in English.
• A current and complete CV in English.
• The completed UNDP application.
• The completed Airtable application form.

Important: Two-Step Application Process

Applicants are specifically instructed to complete both application steps.

You must:

Step 1: Submit your application through the official UNDP vacancy link.

Step 2: Complete the required Airtable application form.

Airtable Application Form

Complete the additional application form here:

https://airtable.com/appeKAJ7quPABAfoc/pagj4yv4UGVuveqXx/form

Important: Completing only one of the two application steps may result in your application not being considered.

Application Deadline

Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis until 30 September 2026.

The internship start date is flexible and needs-based.

Successful applicants may hear back at different times, with notifications potentially taking place between April and the end of 2026.

Applicants should therefore apply as early as possible rather than waiting until the deadline.

Internship Stipend

According to UNDP’s internship terms:

UNDP interns are eligible to receive a monthly stipend.

The applicable stipend amount varies depending on the duty location.

For part-time or remote internship arrangements, the stipend may be prorated accordingly.

Where an intern receives financial support from an institution, government or another third party, UNDP may, subject to the relevant rules, pay the difference between that external support and the applicable UNDP stipend.

Except for the stipend, other expenses connected with the internship are generally the responsibility of the intern, sponsoring government or institution.

Health Insurance

Interns must provide proof of enrollment in a health insurance plan.

UNDP accepts no responsibility for costs arising from accidents, illness or death incurred during the internship.

Important Internship Conditions

Successful interns should be aware that:

• Interns are not considered UNDP staff members.
• Interns may not represent UNDP in an official capacity.
• A high volume of applications may mean that only successful candidates are contacted.
• Applicants must comply with UNDP’s Internship Policy.
• The internship is subject to applicable UNDP rules and conditions.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Diversity, equity and inclusion are core principles at UNDP.

UNDP encourages applications from people from diverse backgrounds and strongly encourages individuals who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations to apply.

UNDP is committed to an inclusive working environment and does not discriminate on the basis of characteristics including nationality, race, sex, gender identity, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

Safeguarding & Background Checks

UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy toward:

• Sexual exploitation.
• Sexual abuse.
• Sexual harassment.
• Harassment.
• Discrimination.
• Abuse of authority.

Selected candidates will undergo appropriate reference and background checks and will be expected to adhere to UNDP’s standards and principles.

Scam Warning

Important: UNDP and the United Nations do not charge applicants any fee for:

• Applying for a position.
• Application processing.
• Training.
• Interviews.
• Testing.
• Recruitment.

If anyone asks you to pay money in connection with this internship application, treat it as a potential scam.

Applicants should also exercise caution when submitting personal information because UNDP logos, names, addresses and other identifying information can be copied and misused by scammers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote internship?

Yes. The vacancy is listed as a remote/global internship opportunity. Remote internship arrangements are subject to the applicable UNDP terms and conditions.

Who can apply?

Final-year undergraduate students, graduate students and eligible recent university graduates may apply, provided they meet the applicable educational requirements.

Do I need previous work experience?

Previous experience in one of the listed Digital, AI and Innovation workstreams is desirable, but the vacancy is structured as an internship opportunity for students and eligible recent graduates.

What fields are relevant?

Relevant backgrounds may include:

• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Data Analytics
• Software Development
• Digital Transformation
• Information Systems
• Public Policy
• Governance
• International Development
• Research
• Communications
• Product Management
• Innovation
• Data Governance

Is there a stipend?

Yes. UNDP states that interns are eligible for a monthly stipend, with the amount depending on the applicable duty location. Remote and part-time arrangements may be prorated.

What is the deadline?

The rolling application period closes on 30 September 2026.

Is the internship open internationally?

The vacancy is presented as a global call and remote opportunity. Applicants should carefully review the official UNDP vacancy terms and eligibility requirements before applying.

Do I need to complete the Airtable form?

Yes. The vacancy specifically instructs applicants to submit their application through the UNDP vacancy link and complete the Airtable form.

Does UNDP charge an application fee?

No. UNDP does not charge application, recruitment, interview, testing or training fees.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity may be particularly suitable for students and recent graduates looking to build international development experience while working in areas such as:

AI | Data Analytics | Digital Transformation | Technology | Innovation | Data Governance | Policy | Research | Product Development | Communications | Digital Public Infrastructure

It may also be useful for candidates seeking experience with an international organization and exposure to projects involving governments, development partners and UNDP Country Offices.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should prepare their CV and cover letter in English and complete the required UNDP application.

Remember that the application process requires two steps:

1. Apply through the official UNDP vacancy link.
2. Complete the required Airtable form.

Airtable Form

https://airtable.com/appeKAJ7quPABAfoc/pagj4yv4UGVuveqXx/form

Application Deadline: 30 September 2026

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Final Reminder

Before submitting your application, make sure that:

• Your CV is updated.
• Your CV is in English.
• Your cover letter is in English.
• You meet at least one of the education requirements.
• Your skills or interests align with one or more DAI Hub workstreams.
• You complete the UNDP vacancy application.
• You complete the Airtable form.
• You do not pay anyone to apply.
• You use official UNDP application channels.