The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially launched its Digital, AI and Innovation Internship: Global Call for 2026, inviting talented students and recent graduates from around the world to contribute to cutting-edge initiatives shaping the future of digital transformation and sustainable development.

This fully home-based internship offers participants the opportunity to work with UNDP’s Digital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub, supporting global projects focused on artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, innovation, data governance, product development, policy research, partnerships, and digital transformation.

Interns will collaborate with international experts while helping UNDP accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative and responsible use of digital technologies.

About the UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Internship

The United Nations Development Programme serves as the development agency of the United Nations, operating in more than 170 countries and territories.

As global challenges become increasingly interconnected, UNDP is investing heavily in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, innovation, and data-driven solutions that strengthen governance, improve public services, and accelerate sustainable development.

The Digital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub acts as UNDP’s central platform for advancing:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Digital Transformation
• Digital Public Infrastructure
• Systems Innovation
• Data Governance
• Digital Product Design
• Capacity Development
• Innovation for Sustainable Development

Interns will become part of this global effort by supporting real-world initiatives that improve lives across developing and emerging economies.

Internship Benefits

Successful interns will receive numerous professional development opportunities, including:

Monthly Stipend

UNDP provides interns with a monthly stipend.

The stipend amount varies depending on the internship duty location. Since this internship is home-based, payments follow UNDP’s internship policy.

If an intern already receives financial support from another institution or government, UNDP may pay the difference between that support and the applicable UNDP stipend.

Fully Remote Work Experience

The internship is entirely home-based, allowing participants to contribute from anywhere in the world while collaborating with international teams.

International Exposure

Interns gain experience working with one of the world’s leading international development organizations.

Participants collaborate with experts working across:

• Digital transformation
• AI policy
• Innovation
• Climate action
• Governance
• Sustainable development
• International partnerships

Professional Development

Interns develop practical skills in:

• Research
• Policy analysis
• Data analytics
• Artificial intelligence
• Digital product management
• Communications
• Project management
• Stakeholder engagement
• Knowledge management

Internship Areas

Applicants may support one or more of the following workstreams.

1. Systems Transformation and Innovation

Responsibilities include:

• Researching innovation policies.
• Conducting horizon scanning.
• Supporting systems transformation.
• Designing innovative programme approaches.
• Producing knowledge products.

2. Programme Delivery and Capacity Building

Interns may:

• Support AI and digital initiatives.
• Develop learning materials.
• Organize webinars.
• Prepare implementation toolkits.
• Coordinate national digital strategies.

3. Data Policy and Governance

Tasks include:

• Researching data governance.
• Supporting national data strategies.
• Preparing policy briefs.
• Monitoring international digital governance developments.
• Supporting advocacy on digital rights.

4. Data Analytics and Insights

Responsibilities include:

• Cleaning and analysing datasets.
• Building dashboards.
• Monitoring project performance.
• Producing reports.
• Translating data into actionable insights.

5. Partnerships and Strategic Communications

Interns may:

• Research technology partners.
• Draft partnership proposals.
• Prepare presentations and pitch decks.
• Develop communication materials.
• Support social media campaigns.
• Assist with speeches and global meetings.

6. Process Efficiency and Resource Management

Tasks include:

• Monitoring project workplans.
• Developing internal guidance documents.
• Improving operational processes.
• Supporting procurement and HR planning.
• Tracking project milestones.

7. Product Design, Development and AI Tools

Interns will help:

• Design digital platforms.
• Support software development.
• Conduct user testing.
• Assist implementation teams.
• Develop AI-powered digital products.

8. Research and Knowledge Management

Responsibilities include:

• Managing knowledge platforms.
• Conducting desk research.
• Producing briefing notes.
• Managing newsletters.
• Curating digital knowledge repositories.

Skills UNDP Is Looking For

Successful applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong communication skills.
• Creativity and innovation.
• Research ability.
• Adaptability.
• Teamwork.
• Problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently.
• Positive attitude.
• Ability to multitask.

Additional desirable skills include:

• Database management.
• Administrative experience.
• Project coordination.
• Digital literacy.
• Analytical thinking.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• A brief cover letter in English.
• A current CV in English.
• An application through the UNDP Careers portal.
• A completed Airtable application form.

Important: Both the UNDP application and the Airtable form must be completed for the application to be considered.

Internship Duration

• Contract Length: 3 months
• Schedule: Full-time
• Location: Home Based (Remote)

The internship start date is flexible and depends on organizational needs.

Recruitment Timeline

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Successful candidates may hear back anytime between April and the end of 2026, depending on recruitment needs.

Application Deadline

Applications Close: September 30, 2026
(The UNDP careers portal displays an application closing time corresponding to October 1, 2026, 03:59 AM UTC, reflecting time-zone differences.)

Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Why You Should Apply

This internship offers a unique opportunity to:

• Gain UN experience.
• Build expertise in AI and digital transformation.
• Work remotely with global experts.
• Strengthen your international professional network.
• Contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Develop highly sought-after digital and policy skills.
• Enhance your career prospects in international development.

How to Apply

To complete your application:

1. Prepare your English CV.
2. Write a brief English cover letter.
3. Submit your application through the UNDP Careers portal.
4. Complete the required Airtable application form.
5. Submit both applications before the deadline.

APPLY HERE

Conclusion

The UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for students and recent graduates seeking international experience in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, innovation, and sustainable development.

With a monthly stipend, flexible remote work, and exposure to global development initiatives, the internship provides valuable professional experience while allowing participants to contribute to impactful projects that support countries around the world.

If you are passionate about technology, innovation, and creating solutions for global challenges, this internship is an opportunity you should not miss.

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