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UNDP Digital, AI & Innovation Internship 2026

The UNDP Digital, AI & Innovation Internship 2026 is a paid, home-based internship for eligible students and recent graduates worldwide. Interns can contribute to digital transformation, artificial intelligence, data, innovation and sustainable development projects with UNDP.

UNDP Digital, AI & Innovation Internship 2026 | Paid Remote Internship

Quick Overview

Opportunity overview
Host OrganisationUnited Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Host UnitDigital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub
BureauBureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS)
LocationHome-Based / Remote
Opportunity TypePaid Internship
Work ScheduleFull-Time
Duration3 Months
Practice AreaInnovation
Eligible ApplicantsFinal-year Bachelor’s students, graduate students and recent graduates
NationalityGlobal Call; no nationality restriction stated
Funding StatusPaid Internship
StipendMonthly stipend; exact amount not specified
Application FeeNone
IELTS RequirementNo IELTS certificate specifically required
English RequirementFluency in English required
Applications Open30 March 2026
Application ReviewRolling basis
Deadline30 September 2026
Start DateFlexible and needs-based
Job ID33001

Detailed Description

The UNDP Digital, AI & Innovation Internship 2026 is a global internship opportunity within the Digital, AI and Innovation Hub of the United Nations Development Programme.

The DAI Hub supports UNDP’s work in areas such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, data, innovation and technology for sustainable development. The internship gives selected candidates the opportunity to contribute to work that supports digital and AI-driven solutions across UNDP programmes.

Interns may support different workstreams depending on their background, skills and organisational needs. These can include systems transformation and innovation, programme delivery and capacity building, data policy and governance, data analytics, strategic communications, partnerships, digital product development, AI tools, process improvement and research.

Typical tasks may involve research, data analysis, preparing knowledge products, supporting digital projects, developing dashboards or visualisations, assisting with communications and contributing to innovation initiatives across UNDP teams.

The internship is fully home-based, allowing selected candidates to work remotely with an international development organisation. The start date is flexible and depends on programme needs.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Be enrolled in a graduate-level university programme or equivalent/higher.
  • Or be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree at minimum Bachelor’s level.
  • Or have graduated with a university degree and be able to start the internship within one year of graduation.
  • Be fluent in English.
  • Have an interest or relevant experience in digital, AI, data, innovation, research, policy, communications or related areas.
  • Be able to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Be able to adapt to changing priorities and work in a remote environment.
  • Meet UNDP’s applicable internship and onboarding requirements if selected.

Benefits

  • Monthly internship stipend in accordance with UNDP Internship Policy.
  • Fully home-based / remote working arrangement.
  • Three months of professional experience with UNDP.
  • Exposure to digital transformation and artificial intelligence projects.
  • Experience supporting international development initiatives.
  • Opportunity to contribute to data, policy, research and innovation work.
  • Exposure to international teams and UNDP Country Offices where relevant.
  • Development of research, analytical, communication and digital skills.
  • Practical experience in an international professional environment.

Documents Required

  • Current and complete CV in English.
  • Brief cover letter in English.
  • Completed UNDP Careers application/profile.
  • Completed mandatory Airtable application form.
  • Academic and personal information requested through the application system.
  • Proof of health insurance if selected.
  • Additional identification, academic or onboarding documentation if requested by UNDP.

Application Process

  1. Check Your Eligibility

    Confirm that you meet one of the academic eligibility routes and can undertake a three-month, full-time remote internship.

  2. Review the Internship Workstreams

    Read the vacancy carefully and identify the digital, AI, data, innovation, research or related areas that best match your background and interests.

  3. Prepare Your CV and Cover Letter

    Prepare an updated CV and a concise cover letter in English, highlighting relevant academic work, projects, skills and experience.

  4. Submit the UNDP Careers Application

    Complete your application for Job ID 33001 through the official UNDP recruitment portal.

  5. Complete the Airtable Form

    Submit the additional Airtable form required by the Digital, AI and Innovation Hub.

  6. Check Both Applications

    Make sure both submissions are complete and that the information provided is accurate and consistent.

  7. Wait for the Recruitment Outcome

    Applications are assessed on a rolling basis. Candidates progressing further may be contacted before the final deadline.

Selection Criteria

  • Meeting the required academic eligibility criteria.
  • Fluency in English.
  • Relevant interest or experience in digital, AI, data or innovation.
  • Ability to produce accurate and high-quality work.
  • Strong research and analytical ability.
  • Innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Adaptability and willingness to learn.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • Alignment with UNDP values and the needs of the DAI Hub.

Timeline

  • Vacancy posted30 March 2026
  • Applications open30 March 2026
  • Rolling application reviewMarch–September 2026
  • Application deadline30 September 2026
  • Successful applicants may be contactedDuring the 2026 recruitment period
  • Internship startFlexible and needs-based
  • Internship duration3 months

Why This Opportunity?

  • Gain practical experience with a major United Nations development organisation.
  • Work at the intersection of AI, technology and sustainable development.
  • Build international experience without relocating abroad.
  • Contribute to real digital, data, research and policy initiatives.
  • Explore careers in AI, digital policy, innovation and international development.
  • Strengthen research, analytical, communication and collaboration skills.
  • Gain exposure to multidisciplinary and international teams.
  • Learn how digital and AI solutions are applied to development challenges.

Mindship Global Tips

  • Apply earlyApplications are assessed on a rolling basis, so do not wait until the final deadline.
  • Complete both applicationsThe UNDP Careers submission and Airtable form are both required.
  • Tailor your cover letterFocus on the DAI Hub workstreams that best match your background.
  • Highlight practical projectsInclude relevant AI, data, digital, research or innovation projects.
  • Show transferable skillsResearch, writing, data analysis and communication can all strengthen your application.
  • Keep your CV focusedPrioritise skills and experience relevant to the internship.
  • Check your graduation dateRecent graduates must normally begin the internship within one year of graduation.
  • Prepare for remote workShow that you can work independently and collaborate effectively online.
  • Never pay to applyUNDP does not charge fees at any stage of its recruitment process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IELTS required?

No IELTS certificate is specifically listed for this internship. However, fluency in English is required.

Is there an application fee?

No, UNDP does not charge an application or recruitment fee.

Is the internship paid?

Yes. Eligible UNDP interns receive a monthly stipend in accordance with UNDP Internship Policy. The exact amount is not specified for this vacancy.

Is the internship fully funded?

No. It is better described as a paid internship rather than fully funded. UNDP provides a stipend, but other expenses and health insurance may remain the intern’s responsibility.

Can international applicants apply?

Yes. The vacancy is advertised as a global call and no nationality restriction is stated.

Is the internship remote?

Yes. The location is listed as home-based.

How long does the internship last?

The advertised duration is three months on a full-time basis.

Can final-year Bachelor’s students apply?

Yes. Applicants enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree at Bachelor’s level or equivalent are eligible.

Can Master’s or PhD students apply?

Yes. Applicants enrolled in a graduate-level programme or higher can apply.

Can recent graduates apply?

Yes. Recent graduates may apply if they can begin the internship within one year of graduation.

Is previous work experience required?

No specific professional work-experience requirement is stated. Relevant experience, projects or technical skills may still strengthen an application.

Do I need to complete both application forms?

Yes. Applicants must submit through the UNDP Careers portal and complete the separate Airtable form.

What is the application deadline?

The working deadline is 30 September 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Official Application Link

Disclaimer

📌 Mindship Global shares verified educational opportunities for informational purposes only. Applicants should verify eligibility, funding arrangements, deadlines, required documents, and application requirements through the official website before applying.

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