UNICEF Innovation Fund Portfolio: Startups Using AI, Blockchain and Technology to Solve Global Challenges
The UNICEF Innovation Fund supports technology startups developing innovative solutions to challenges affecting children and communities worldwide. Its portfolio has included companies working with artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, virtual reality (VR), machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT).
These technologies have potential applications in education, healthcare, food distribution, water quality, digital connectivity and public accountability. By supporting open-source technology development, UNICEF’s Innovation Fund aims to encourage solutions that can be adapted and used to address development challenges in emerging markets.
Important: The portfolio information discussed in this article relates to historical announcements, including UNICEF’s 2019 investment round. It should not be interpreted as confirmation that the same funding opportunity is currently accepting applications.
About the UNICEF Innovation Fund
The UNICEF Office of Innovation explores how emerging technologies can help improve outcomes for children and young people. Its work includes supporting entrepreneurs, testing new technologies and identifying approaches that may address persistent social and development challenges.
The Innovation Fund has historically provided investment to early-stage technology companies developing open-source solutions. Its approach emphasises experimentation, practical prototypes and technologies that can be adapted to different contexts.
Areas of interest have included blockchain, AI, data analytics, digital education and other technologies relevant to underserved communities.
UNICEF Announces Investment in 13 Startups
One of UNICEF Innovation Fund’s historical announcements highlighted an investment round that added 13 startups to its 2019 portfolio. The companies were developing technologies with applications ranging from healthcare and education to food distribution and public services.
The announcement demonstrated how emerging technologies could be applied to practical development challenges rather than remaining limited to theoretical research or commercial applications.
The portfolio included startups using blockchain to improve transparency, virtual reality to support learning, and AI to facilitate early childhood education and healthcare interventions.
Technology Startups Supported by UNICEF’s Innovation Fund
The following companies were featured in the historical portfolio information provided.
1. Atix Labs: Blockchain for Social Impact Financing
Atix Labs developed a platform designed to connect enterprises with potential funders through blockchain technology. Its approach focused on making social impact financing more accessible and transparent.
2. One Smart: Data-Driven and Verified Cities
One Smart explored blockchain and AI technologies to improve transparency and accountability in government resource allocation. Its work focused on how digital systems could support more accountable public services.
3. Prescrypto: Secure and Portable Clinical Data
Prescrypto worked on using blockchain technology to give users greater control over clinical information. The concept aimed to make healthcare data more secure, private and portable.
4. W3 Engineers: Connectivity in Remote Areas
W3 Engineers developed an open-source messaging solution using mesh networking and blockchain-related technology. The approach sought to improve communication in areas where conventional internet connectivity may be limited.
5. StaTwig: Improving Food and Vaccine Distribution
StaTwig focused on improving distribution systems for food and vaccines. Its technology aimed to support more efficient supply chains and improve the tracking of essential products.
6. Utopixar: Technology for Social Collaboration
Utopixar developed a platform intended to help communities collaborate on initiatives addressing social and environmental challenges.
7. Veative Labs: Accessible Educational Content
Veative Labs used interactive educational content to help students understand complex subjects. Its work focused on making learning more engaging through technology.
8. IMISI 3D: Virtual Reality for Education
IMISI 3D developed leVRn C3, an open-source virtual reality platform designed to support curriculum-based learning. The platform aimed to improve classroom experiences for teachers and students through interactive educational modules.
9. Utopic Studio: Improving Children’s Reading Skills
Utopic Studio explored virtual reality games as a way to encourage children’s engagement with literature and develop reading skills through interactive experiences.
10. Afinidata: AI for Early Childhood Education
Afinidata developed an AI chatbot designed to help parents create fun and educational activities for children under six years old. The approach aimed to support early childhood learning through accessible digital tools.
11. Avyantra: Machine Learning for Newborn Healthcare
Avyantra used machine learning to support the early identification and treatment of neonatal sepsis, a serious infection affecting newborns. Its work focused on using data-driven approaches to improve healthcare interventions.
12. Conative Labs: Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring
Conative Labs developed an Internet of Things solution using sensors to monitor water quality in real time. Such systems can support early warnings and help communities and authorities identify potential water safety problems.
13. NubianVR: Accessible Virtual Reality Learning
NubianVR focused on making virtual reality educational tools more accessible to teachers and learners through WebXR technology, which enables immersive experiences through compatible web browsers and devices.
Why These Innovations Matter
The portfolio illustrates how emerging technologies can be adapted to address development challenges.
AI and machine learning can support healthcare and education, while blockchain may help improve data management and accountability. Virtual reality can offer interactive learning experiences, and connected sensors can provide information to support water safety and other public services.
However, the development impact of a technology depends on factors such as affordability, accessibility, implementation, data protection and evidence of effectiveness. A successful prototype does not automatically guarantee widespread adoption or measurable improvements in people’s lives.
How to Explore UNICEF Innovation Funding Opportunities
Entrepreneurs, technology developers and organisations interested in UNICEF’s innovation work should consult official UNICEF resources for current programmes, funding announcements and eligibility requirements.
Start with the UNICEF Office of Innovation and review any published calls for applications carefully. Check the funding conditions, eligible countries, technology requirements and application deadlines before preparing a proposal.
The historical portfolio described here is useful for understanding the types of innovations UNICEF has supported, but it does not confirm that these companies or projects are currently receiving funding.
Final Thoughts
UNICEF’s Innovation Fund portfolio highlights the potential of technology to address challenges in children’s health, education, connectivity and community development.
For entrepreneurs and innovators, these examples offer insight into how digital solutions can be designed around real-world needs. Those seeking funding should use UNICEF’s official channels to identify current opportunities and verify application requirements.
