The UNHCR Innovation Fellowship 2026 is a professional learning programme that empowers participants to develop innovation skills within the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and its partner organisations. It provides practical tools, methods, and approaches to tackle real challenges facing refugees and displaced communities worldwide.
This 12-month fellowship equips participants with structured problem-solving, ideation, experimentation, and testing skills. Fellows apply innovative solutions to operational challenges, becoming ambassadors for positive change and innovation within UNHCR and the broader humanitarian sector.
Benefits
- Hands-on training in innovation methods and tools
- Practical experience in problem solving, ideation, and experimentation
- Peer learning with a global cohort of Fellows
- Support from the UNHCR Innovation team
- Skills to embed innovation into daily work and long-term strategy
Eligibility Criteria
The Fellowship is open primarily to:
- UNHCR staff from headquarters or field operations
- Affiliate workforce members working with UNHCR
- Members of select partner organisations such as other UN agencies or invited NGOs
Applicants must have the support of their supervisor and be actively working so they can apply what they learn to their daily work.
Why It Matters?
The Innovation Fellowship helps humanitarian professionals:
- Build innovation skills that are directly applicable to their work
- Foster a culture of creative problem solving
- Become change agents within their teams and operations
- Tackle systemic challenges in refugee protection, shelter, food security, inclusion, and more
Fellows often use what they learn long after the programme ends, strengthening innovation practices within UNHCR globally.
How to Apply?
- Check your eligibility and make sure you meet all the requirements for the fellowship.
- Prepare your application documents, including your CV, motivation statement, and any relevant professional references.
- Complete the online application form provided on the UNHCR Innovation Fellowship portal.
- Submit your application before the specified deadline to ensure it is considered.
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or additional assessments.
- Successful applicants will receive confirmation and instructions to begin the 12-month fellowship program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The UNHCR Innovation Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded 12-month program for early to mid-career professionals in humanitarian fields. Participants gain practical innovation skills, mentorship, and apply solutions to real refugee and humanitarian challenges worldwide.
What is the UNHCR Innovation Fellowship 2026?
The UNHCR Innovation Fellowship 2026 is a professional learning program designed to strengthen innovation capabilities within UNHCR and its partner organizations. It equips participants to address real operational challenges impacting refugees and displaced communities worldwide.
Who is eligible for the UNHCR Innovation Fellowship 2026?
Early to mid-career professionals working in humanitarian operations or related fields are eligible. Applicants should demonstrate experience in problem-solving, innovation, or project implementation relevant to refugee support and global humanitarian initiatives.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts 12 months and is designed as a structured learning journey. Participants engage in workshops, mentorship, and hands-on innovation projects, allowing them to apply solutions to real-life challenges within their operations or divisions.
What are the main benefits of the UNHCR Innovation Fellowship 2026?
Participants gain practical innovation skills, access to mentorship, structured learning modules, and networking with experts. The program empowers fellows to apply creative solutions to humanitarian challenges, becoming ambassadors for innovation in UNHCR and the wider ecosystem.
Is the UNHCR Innovation Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the UNHCR Innovation Fellowship is fully funded. This includes access to learning resources, mentorship programs, and participation in practical innovation projects without personal cost to participants, ensuring equal opportunity for all selected candidates.
How can I apply for the UNHCR Innovation Fellowship 2026?
Applications are submitted through the official UNHCR Innovation Fellowship portal. Candidates must prepare their CV, motivation statement, and references, complete the online form, and submit it before the official deadline for consideration.
What skills will I gain from the fellowship?
Fellows develop structured approaches to problem-solving, ideation, experimentation, and iterative testing. They gain practical experience in applying innovative solutions to real operational challenges, improving their impact in humanitarian and refugee-focused initiatives.
Is the program conducted online or in-person?
The fellowship is delivered virtually, allowing global participation. Selected participants engage in online workshops, collaborative projects, and mentorship sessions, applying innovative strategies to their local operations while connecting with international experts.
Are there any selection criteria for the fellowship?
Selection is based on professional experience, demonstrated commitment to humanitarian innovation, and the potential to contribute positively to UNHCR operations. Applicants with a strong track record in problem-solving and project implementation are highly encouraged to apply.
What happens after completing the fellowship?
Graduates of the fellowship return to their organizations equipped with innovation skills, ready to implement creative solutions to operational challenges. They serve as ambassadors for innovation and contribute to more effective and sustainable humanitarian programs globally.
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