Are you looking for a Digital, AI and Innovation Internship in 2026? The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting applications for its Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026.
This is a 3-month, home-based internship within the UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation (DAI) Hub. The opportunity is suitable for students and recent university graduates interested in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, data, innovation, technology, policy, research and product development.
Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis, giving eligible candidates an opportunity to apply before the closing date.
UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026
The UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Hub supports digital transformation, innovation, data and artificial intelligence initiatives across UNDP’s global development work.
Interns will have the opportunity to contribute to projects involving digital technologies, AI, data governance, analytics, innovation, digital products, research and strategic communications.
The internship is home based, making it an attractive opportunity for candidates looking for international remote internship experience.
Job Details
- Organisation: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- Internship: Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026
- Job Identification: 33001
- Location: Home Based
- Vacancy Type: Internship Programme
- Practice Area: Innovation
- Bureau: Bureau for Policy and Programme Support
- Contract Duration: 3 months
- Schedule: Full-time
- Required Language: English
- Application Deadline: 1 October 2026
- Start Date: Flexible and needs-based
What Will the UNDP Intern Do?
Selected interns may work in different areas depending on their skills, interests and the needs of the DAI Hub.
1. Systems Transformation and Innovation
Interns may assist with research and analysis related to systems transformation, innovation and emerging policy approaches.
Responsibilities may include:
- Researching global and regional technology trends
- Preparing analytical content
- Supporting innovation initiatives
- Designing and documenting new approaches
- Developing knowledge products
- Supporting thought leadership on innovation and systems transformation
2. Digital, Data and AI Programme Delivery
Interns may support digital and AI initiatives involving UNDP Country Offices and development partners.
Tasks can include:
- Developing training and capacity-building materials
- Supporting digital, data and AI initiatives
- Assisting with digital and AI strategies
- Preparing practical toolkits and guidance
- Organising webinars and learning sessions
3. Data Policy and Governance
This workstream focuses on data governance, data protection and responsible use of data.
Interns may:
- Research data governance frameworks
- Research data protection issues
- Support national data strategy development
- Prepare policy briefs and analytical summaries
- Monitor international developments in data governance
- Contribute to work involving digital rights and responsible data use
4. Data Analytics and Insights
Candidates interested in data analysis and visualisation may support projects involving quantitative and qualitative data.
Responsibilities may include:
- Collecting and cleaning datasets
- Analysing data
- Creating dashboards and trackers
- Developing data visualisations
- Monitoring Digital Strategy implementation
- Supporting reporting and evaluation
- Turning data into useful insights
5. Partnerships and Strategic Communications
Interns may also support UNDP’s partnerships and communications work.
This can involve:
- Researching potential technology partners
- Identifying collaboration opportunities
- Preparing concept notes and proposals
- Developing communications materials
- Supporting meetings and events
- Researching digital and technology trends
- Creating content for blogs, newsletters and social media
- Supporting strategic communications initiatives
6. Process Efficiency and Resource Management
Interns may assist with the management and monitoring of DAI Hub projects.
Tasks can include:
- Tracking project milestones
- Maintaining workplans
- Developing standard operating procedures
- Creating trackers and dashboards
- Supporting operational planning
- Identifying inefficiencies
- Suggesting process improvements
7. Product Design, Development and AI Tools
Candidates interested in software development, digital products and artificial intelligence may support the design and development of digital solutions.
Interns may:
- Participate in digital product design
- Help define product requirements
- Support web applications and platforms
- Work with software developers and product managers
- Assist with AI tools
- Conduct user testing
- Help improve digital products
- Support implementation of digital solutions
8. Research and Knowledge Management
The internship also includes opportunities for candidates interested in research and knowledge management.
Responsibilities may include:
- Conducting research on digital, data and AI topics
- Preparing research summaries
- Drafting briefing materials
- Maintaining knowledge platforms
- Managing digital knowledge products
- Supporting newsletters
- Curating information and resources
Who Can Apply?
Candidates must meet one of the following education requirements:
- Be enrolled in a graduate programme, such as a second university degree or equivalent;
- Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree at bachelor’s level or equivalent; or
- Have graduated with a university degree and, if selected, commence the internship within one year of graduation.
An interest or previous experience in one of the DAI Hub workstream areas is desirable.
Skills and Experience
UNDP is looking for motivated candidates who can work independently and collaboratively.
Useful skills include:
- Database management
- Data analysis
- Digital technologies
- Artificial intelligence
- Research
- Innovation
- Communication
- Project coordination
- Product development
- Technology and digital transformation
- Knowledge management
- Strategic communications
- Problem-solving
- Ability to work under pressure
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities
Candidates should also be willing to learn and apply their academic knowledge to practical projects.
UNDP Internship Stipend
According to the internship information provided by UNDP, eligible interns receive a monthly stipend.
The applicable stipend varies depending on the duty location, and remote or part-time arrangements may be prorated.
Candidates should carefully review the UNDP internship terms and conditions before applying.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following:
- Current and complete CV in English
- Brief cover letter in English
- Any other information required through the application process
Important: Two Application Steps
Applicants are required to complete both parts of the application process.
You must:
- Submit your application through the UNDP vacancy link; and
- Complete the Airtable application form provided by the DAI Hub.
Completing only one of these steps may mean that your application is incomplete.
How to Apply for the UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026
Interested candidates should submit their application before the closing date and carefully follow the instructions provided in the official vacancy.
Application deadline: 1 October 2026
The internship has a flexible, needs-based start date. UNDP has indicated that applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Airtable Application Form:
Complete the UNDP DAI Hub Airtable Application Form
For the official vacancy and UNDP career information, applicants should use the UNDP recruitment platform.
Why Apply for This Internship?
The UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Internship could be valuable for students and graduates who want to build experience in areas that are becoming increasingly important across the global technology sector.
Depending on the workstream, interns can gain exposure to:
- Artificial intelligence
- Digital transformation
- Data analytics
- Data governance
- Digital product development
- Technology policy
- Innovation
- Research
- International development
- Strategic communications
- Knowledge management
The experience can be particularly useful for candidates building careers in technology, AI, data, digital transformation, software development, innovation or international development.
Important Information for Applicants
This is a competitive international internship opportunity. Candidates should make sure that their CV and cover letter clearly demonstrate their education, relevant skills, projects, technical experience and interest in digital, AI, data or innovation.
Applicants should also be careful of recruitment scams.
UNDP does not charge applicants an application, recruitment, processing, training, interview or testing fee. Never send money to anyone claiming to guarantee a UNDP position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Internship remote?
Yes. The vacancy is listed as Home Based, meaning the internship is designed as a remote opportunity.
How long is the internship?
The contract duration is 3 months.
What language is required?
Applicants must have fluency in English.
Can university students apply?
Yes. Candidates in the final academic year of their first university degree or those enrolled in a graduate programme may apply, provided they meet the other requirements.
Can recent graduates apply?
Yes. Graduates may apply if they can commence the internship within one year of graduation, if selected.
Is there a stipend?
Yes. UNDP states that interns are eligible for a monthly stipend, with the rate depending on the duty location. Remote arrangements may be prorated.
What is the closing date?
The listed application deadline is 1 October 2026. Candidates should apply as early as possible because applications are being considered on a rolling basis.
Final Thoughts
If you are a student or recent graduate interested in AI, technology, data, digital transformation or innovation, the UNDP Digital, AI and Innovation Internship 2026 is an opportunity worth considering.
The home-based format also makes it possible to gain experience working with a global development organisation while contributing to projects involving emerging technologies and digital transformation.
Don’t wait until the deadline. Prepare your CV and cover letter, complete both required application steps and submit your application as soon as possible.
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