UNICEF Brazil Seeks Innovation Consultant to Bridge Funding and Policy Gaps
UNICEF Brazil is actively seeking a consultant to bolster its innovation efforts, focusing on securing public funding and shaping effective policies for children and adolescents. This initiative, part of the Country Program Document (CPD) 2024–2028, underscores a growing commitment to innovation as a core strategy for achieving impactful results and reducing inequalities.
The Expanding Role of Innovation at UNICEF Brazil
Recent advancements within UNICEF Brazil have centered on establishing a more structured innovation agenda and activating key partnerships. The organization is working to mature innovative solutions and expand their reach through collaboration with governments, the private sector, foundations, and the broader Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem. This consultancy aims to build on this momentum.
Addressing Key Challenges
Despite progress, significant challenges remain. Intersectoral fragmentation, limited local capacity, and fiscal constraints hinder the translation of STI advancements and public financing opportunities into tangible outcomes. The consultancy will directly address these obstacles by mapping and structuring opportunities for public policies, government financing, and STI instruments.
Focus on the APPD&I and Scientific Forums
A central component of this consultancy is navigating the Partnership Agreement for Research, Development, and Innovation (APPD&I/APPDI) within the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. The consultant will also explore how to leverage scientific forums – such as Science Fairs and Exhibitions, and the Science Olympics Forum – as platforms for influencing public policy and generating a pipeline of innovative solutions.
Key Responsibilities and Deliverables
The 10-month consultancy is structured around four key deliverables, each with specific outputs and timelines:
- Inception Report & Function Plan (Month 1): A detailed roadmap outlining the methodology, timeline, stakeholder mapping, and risk assessment.
- Mapping & Analysis (Months 2-3): A comprehensive analysis of public funding opportunities and STI instruments, coupled with a qualified pipeline of potential partners.
- Partnership Mechanisms & Adoption Roadmap (Months 4-6): Development of partnership engagement materials and a roadmap for scaling successful innovations.
- Final Report & Handover Package (Months 7-9): A final report summarizing achievements, lessons learned, and a complete handover package of tools and resources.
Required Expertise
The ideal candidate will possess a university degree in a relevant field (political science, education, economics, etc.) and a minimum of seven years of experience in public policy, innovation ecosystems, or STI. Proven experience with Brazilian STI governance frameworks, including the APPD&I/PD&I agreements, is essential. Strong analytical skills, communication abilities, and the capacity to deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines are also crucial.
What This Means for the Future of Innovation in Brazil
This consultancy represents a strategic investment in strengthening the link between research, policy, and implementation. By streamlining access to funding and fostering collaboration, UNICEF Brazil aims to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by children and adolescents in the country. The focus on leveraging scientific forums also highlights a commitment to engaging the next generation of innovators.
Did you know?
UNICEF’s Country Programme Document for Brazil extends through December 2028, demonstrating a long-term commitment to supporting children and adolescents in the region.
FAQ
- What is the APPD&I/APPDI? It’s the Partnership Agreement for Research, Development, and Innovation, a key instrument within the Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
- Is travel required for this consultancy? No, this is a remote position.
- What are the core values of UNICEF? Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability and Sustainability (CRITAS).
- What is the duration of the consultancy? The consultancy is for 10 months.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by April 5, 2026. Further details and application instructions can be found here.
Keep reading