Call for proposals: Documenting Learning from Research and Innovation in the Humanitarian Sector
We are seeking a consultant or team of consultants to document and communicate the role of Research and Innovation (R&I) in bringing about change in humanitarian practice.
Job details
Overview
The humanitarian sector faces increasing pressure to be more effective and accountable in the face of protracted crises, climate risks, and constrained funding. Donors and other stakeholders are asking the critical ‘so what?’ question: does investing scarce resources in research and innovation make a tangible difference? This work responds directly to the ‘so what?’question by looking at critical instances of meaningful, positive changes in the humanitarian practice, and interrogating the role that R&I played in bringing about such changes, and what this implies for sustaining and scaling future investments. By taking a broad perspective, it will generate learning that can support donor and partner influence, inform sector-wide strategy, and contribute to global efforts to embed R&I as a core component of humanitarian action.
Objectives
- Evidence the role of Research and Innovation in relation to 2-3 identified changes in humanitarian practice occurred over the last 15 years (2010-2025)
- Draw out cross-cutting insights on what works to drive effective and impactful research and innovation in humanitarian settings.
Timeline
Deadline for proposals: 17 October
Interviews and selection of consultant: 20-27 October 2025
Project start: 10 November 2025
Final deliverables: 31January 2026
Only service providers with availability to meet this timeframe should consider participating in this tender.
How to apply
Full application details and submission instructions are available in Call for Proposals.
Attachments you require include:
Schedule 1: Cost Structure Proposal
Annex 1: Proposal Submission Letter
Annex 2: Non-Collusive Proposal Certificate
Annex 3: Terms And Conditions Acceptance Letter
Annex 4: Bidder Information Questionnaire
Appendix 1: Elrha Contract Terms
Appendix 2: Elrha Incident Prevention and Management Policy
Deadline: Proposals must be submitted by 23:59 UK time on October 17 2025.
Please submit the Technical and Cost Structure Proposals, the completed Annex 1, 2 and 3, and Annex 4 if relevant, to Valeria Izzi as per the following instructions:
- Email address: [email protected] with [email protected] in copy.
- Subject line: Call for Proposals – Documenting Learning from Research and Innovation in the Humanitarian Sector – [your organisations name]
- Signed with the name and title of the person making the submission.
Submissions emailed to any other Elrha email address will not be considered. Submissions not following the‘subject line’ instructions may not be considered.
About Elrha
Elrha is a global organisation that finds solutions to complex humanitarian problems through research and innovation. We fund and support projects that go on to shape the way in which people across the world are supported during a crisis. We’re an established and respected part of the humanitarian community, working closely and meaningfully with our fellow networks and actors to make change happen.
Read our strategy: Shaping the future: our strategy for research and innovation in humanitarian response 2023 – 2040. It sets out how we’ll work with our community to realise its potential in humanitarian response, and how we’ll capture the real change and improvements to the lives of people affected by crisis.
Commitment to diversity and inclusion
At Elrha, we view diversity as a strength and reflect this in our hiring practices and culture. A diverse workforce helps us tackle the complex challenges of the humanitarian sector.
We strive to create an inclusive environment where all team members feel valued and empowered. Our initiatives promote equality and ensure that everyone has a voice in shaping our organization and the communities we serve.
What do we do?
Elrha is dedicated to improving humanitarian outcomes by funding innovative projects and studies worldwide.
We focus on critical areas such as health, education, and emergency response to address the evolving needs of vulnerable populations. Through our strategic partnerships and rigorous research, we aim to drive impactful change and enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian efforts.
Why Work for Us?
At Elrha, we foster a collaborative and inclusive culture that empowers our team to create meaningful impact in the humanitarian sector.
Our commitment to diversity, innovation, and professional development ensures that everyone has a voice and the opportunity to grow. Join us in our mission to drive positive change!
Meet our team
Our dedicated staff and governance groups are at the heart of everything we do. Our team, trustees, and advisers, join us from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique expertise and experience to our work to find solutions to complex humanitarian problems.
