MSME Digitalization Policy and GEDSI Assessment (IC)

Description of the Assignment:  

Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are central to inclusive growth and job creation, yet

digital adoption remains uneven across ASEAN; only ~34% of MSMEs have adopted basic tools

and ~10% advanced tools, underscoring persistent gaps in capabilities, infrastructure, and enabling

policies.

Supported by the Joint SDG Fund with contributions from the European Union and other member

states, and leveraging the strengths and resources of Participating UN Organizations (PUNOs)—

United Nations Development Programme, International Labour Organization, and the International

Trade Centre—under the auspices of the UN Resident Coordinator, alongside key government

agencies, the Joint Programme on Inclusive, Competitive and Responsible Digital Philippines (JP

Digital PINAS) aims to leverage digital innovation for inclusive growth and resilience, aligning with

UN frameworks and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It seeks to support the digitalization

of at least 15,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including those in geographically

isolated and disadvantaged areas, through a three-pillar strategy: enhancing MSME capabilities,

improving their digital access, and fostering gender-responsive policies.

One of the target outcomes of the JP is to establish a conducive environment for MSMEs’ longterm

growth and sustainability by raising awareness of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and

Human Rights (UNGP) and advocating for policies and regulations that support inclusive digital

transformation, creating an enabling environment that allows MSMEs and marginalized groups to

thrive in the digital economy. To support UNDP’s work in the achievement of this outcome, a

consolidated MSME digitalization policy and regulatory assessment that should feed into the

advocacy activities of Digital PINAS among key stakeholders (i.e., national and local governments)

will be conducted. To ensure that the JP advocates for a gender-inclusive policy environment

aligned with various national policy instruments addressing GEDSI (e.g., Magna Carta of Women,

IPRA Law), this assessment will include a GEDSI assessment of national and local policies and

regulations impacting MSME digitalization.

Qualifications:

Education

• A master’s degree in Public Policy, Economics, Development Studies,

ICT/Digital Policy, Gender/Women’s Studies, Sociology/Anthropology,

Social Work, or related field is required. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant

field with at least two (2) additional years of relevant experience may be

considered in lieu of a masters degree.

Experience

At least seven (7) years of experience in gender and development, with

specific experience in GEDSI integration in development programs,

capacity building, advocacy or policy engagement;

• Experience in or familiarity with digital inclusion/ICT4D, MSME support

programs, or public service access;

• Track record in producing policy options/roadmaps and high-quality

analytical reports and other policy documents for government or

development partners;

• Proven experience in conducting multi-stakeholder consultations and

dialogues, including women, indigenous groups, and marginalized

communities;

• Demonstrated experience in conducting assessments, research, and policy

analysis, particularly in identifying gaps, opportunities, and entry points for

GEDSI, including in digitalization or MSME development;

• Experience working with government agencies, LGUs, international

organizations, NGOs, or the MSME sector is an advantage.

Knowledge and Skills

Demonstrated knowledge in applying GEDSI assessment tools and

inclusion frameworks;

• Familiarity with the MSME ecosystem, including challenges, opportunities,

and policy environment;

• Familiarity with the digitalization ecosystem in the Philippines;

• Familiarity with Philippine policy instruments and government processes;

• Able to develop strategic frameworks, implementation roadmaps, and

policy recommendations.

• Highly capable in translating policy objectives into practical, measurable

initiatives.

Language

Proficient in English and Filipino

Period of assignment/services (if applicable):  45 person days

Proposal should be submitted directly in the portal no later than indicated deadline.

Any request for clarification must be sent in writing via messaging functionality in the portal. UNDP will respond in writing including an explanation of the query without identifying the source of inquiry.

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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP:  we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. 

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