UNDP-PHL-00891,1 - MSME Digitalization Policy and GEDSI Assessment (IC) - UNDP - PHILIPPINES

Summary

This specific tender is managed via the new supplier portal system of UNDP Quantum. If you are interested in submitting a bid for this tender, you must subscribe following the instructions in the user guide . If you have not registered a profile with this system, you can do so by following the link for Supplier Registration . If you already have a supplier profile, please access the negotiation using quicklink or please login to the Supplier Portal , then search for the negotiation using the reference number UNDP-PHL-00891,1 , following the instructions in the user guide . Introduction 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 master's 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. http://supplier.quantum.partneragencies.org  using the profile you may have in the portal. In case you have never registered before, you can register a profile using the registration link shared via the procurement notice and following the instructions in guides available in UNDP website: https://www.undp.org/procurement/business/resources-for-bidders .  Do not create a new profile if you already have one. Use the forgotten password feature in case you do not remember the password or the username from previous registration. 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. UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Women, individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Amendment Public Tender Notice Documents : Negotiation Document(s) (Before Accessing other negotiations Document(s), please click on this link ) Application Deadline: 13-Apr-26