In Zambia, UNCDF supports the development of new use-cases, products or businesses models that could drive outcomes around inclusive digital economies and expansion of Digital Financial Services for segments usually left behind, such as women, youth, and other vulnerable segments in the low-income groups. Effective interpretation, adoption and use/deployment of data driven decisions is significant, if such marginalized segments are to be served. Noting to add, this can only be amplified by effective inclusion of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the day to-day operations of institutions both in government and the private sector.

UNCDF plans to invest up to a total of US$ 50,000 into a qualified firm to offer capacity building aimed at upskilling at least 40 individuals working in data-related positions at UNCDF partners (e.g., data scientists, AI engineers) including selected students in the field of computer science on data management, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. UNCDF expects the following:

• Public and private sector partners to learn how to leverage artificial Intelligence, machine learning, big data, and digital systems to deepen digital economies and financial inclusion, while promoting the greater use of digital technologies for Zambians, especially for marginalized segments of women & youth.
• Government partners to explore policy and regulatory opportunities that advance the application of digital technologies, machine learning, AI, and big data to deepen Zambia’s digital economy and financial sector.

UNCDF is inviting applications from entities registered in Zambia that are involved in technology consulting and training, and/or innovation/incubation hubs and can train government and selected private sector data engineers, with emphasis on AI, ML, big data mining and analysis for decision making.

Applicants may apply independently or in a consortium.

All applications must be submitted by 23:59 on November 2, 2021, through UNCDF e-investment platform:

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

However, UNCDF invites you to check our e-investment platform to see if this deadline has not been extended.

Enquiries to this request for applications may be submitted by email to isaac.holly@uncdf.org cc uncdf.rfa@uncdf.org