Harnessing artificial intelligence for social good
Backing diverse builders to scale AI solutions for children.
UNICEF’s Office of Innovation (OOI) unlocks the potential of frontier technology in emerging markets to create social good for children everywhere. Together with partners, we are building with purpose, backing diverse builders and scaling artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for climate, health and education.
Our goal is to ensure that the next generation of AI is inclusive, ethical and designed to deliver results for children. As AI moves from pilot to mainstream, we are putting new tools into the hands of frontline workers, children and adolescents in emerging markets, equipping them with AI literacy and skills.
OOI’s purpose-driven platform, AI in Play – developed with tech company Arm – brings together partners who share a belief in the potential of frontier technology for social good and a commitment to mobilize a globally diverse community of AI builders.
Examples of AI-powered solutions already in motion, include real-time monitoring of harmful air pollution; early warning systems for extreme climate events; accurate groundwater mapping for more effective drilling; natural language processing for underserved languages; production of inclusive digital text books for all learners; translation of critical health information; and identification of zero-dose children who have missed out on vaccinations.
Why It Matters
The challenges facing children are diverse and demanding. Air pollution is already linked to one in 10 deaths of children under five. By 2040, one in four children is expected to live in areas of extreme water scarcity. Nearly 240 million children live with disabilities and face daily barriers to learning and participation. Every year, UNICEF responds to many hundreds of emergencies, often in locations where language barriers and poor connectivity restrict effective humanitarian responses.
What if we could use AI models to predict the next climate disaster and reach families before it hits?
What if a community health worker could access accurate, trustworthy guidance in their own language, even without reliable internet?
What if we could use AI-powered mapping to discover new clean water aquifers in drought-stressed areas?
What if digital platforms could adapt to every child’s needs, no matter their literacy level or ability?
This is the possibility-driven potential of AI. Through strategic and catalytic partnerships, OOI is harnessing frontier technology to meet these needs and more.
Our Approach
OOI identifies, co-creates, supports and scales AI-powered solutions that are open-source, adaptable and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. We focus on:
Exploring
Through our Venture Fund, we have invested in over 60 AI-powered projects across more than 30 countries. We co-fund UNICEF offices testing AI applications and support local startup ecosystems in emerging markets.
Accelerating
We offer mentorship, strategic insight and technical guidance to UNICEF teams and innovators developing AI tools. Our focus is on finding the right problem-solution fit and designing technologies for scale.
Leading by Example
We shape global conversations on responsible AI by promoting open-source solutions and digital public goods (DPGs), providing guidance on child-focused AI risk management, and evaluating and adapting AI systems for impact in diverse contexts.
As validated technologies transition to scale, we help ensure UNICEF leads by example, supporting responsible, inclusive systems that are accessible to all.
Partner With Us
If you are working at the intersection of innovation and impact, we want to hear from you. Let’s shape the future of AI together, one that works for every child.