Research Officer Consultant at Nailab

Project Scope
The assessment aims to:

• Conduct a comprehensive mapping exercise to identify innovative solutions that have leveraged technology and have a clear business model for sustainable outcomes in SRHR with the aim of scaling and linking them to funding opportunities.
• Develop an investor toolkit template sheet showcasing high-impact SRHR innovations with robust metrics on the business model, scalability, sustainability, alignment with relevant SDGs, and the potential to attract funding/investment.
• Facilitate connections and foster a collaborative ecosystem between impactful SRHR innovations and social impact investors.
• Understand the current landscape, highlight successful innovative solutions, and provide strategic recommendations to enhance the adoption and scale-out of SRHR innovations.

Objectives

Planned Parenthood Global (PPG) is firmly committed to improving Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) outcomes across Africa. This mapping exercise directly aligns with that commitment by identifying and supporting impactful and self-sustainable innovations that leverage technology to address critical SRHR challenges.

Expected Outputs

• A detailed plan and methodology for data collection, including survey tools for gathering feedback on challenges and solutions.
• A structured and organized database of innovative SRHR solutions, including metrics on impact, scalability, sustainability, and alignment with relevant SDGs.
• A structured and organized database of investors, donors, and funders interested in SRHR social impact enterprises, detailing their thematic focus and funding history.
• A detailed report documenting lessons learned, policies, and the advocacy role in advancing innovations in African markets, highlighting key findings and recommendations for enhancing SRHR technology-based solutions.
• A calendar of SRHR, health, and technology events that could be leveraged for findings and learnings.
• A final report on the mapping exercise findings, including identified gaps, trends, and recommendations.

Objective:

The objective of this consultancy is to conduct a comprehensive study to identify gaps, challenges, and potential solutions for startups in Africa. The findings will guide the communication strategy and program design of the initiative

Scope of Work:

The consultant will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Conducting a detailed gap analysis of the current startup support ecosystem in Africa.
• Assessing the main challenges faced by startups, including financial, operational, regulatory, and market-related obstacles.
• Recommending innovative and scalable solutions to address identified gaps and challenges.
• Mapping key stakeholders and analyzing their roles and potential contributions.
• Providing insights and recommendations for an effective communication strategy.
• Making strategic recommendations for the design and implementation of support programs.
• Compiling relevant data, case studies, and success stories to support findings and recommendations.
• Preparing a comprehensive final research report.
• Delivering a presentation summarizing the research findings and recommendations.
• Outlining a follow-up action plan for implementing the recommended solutions

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Health, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in research, data collection, and analysis.
• Experience working on projects related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is a plus.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and writing skills.
• Experience conducting desk reviews and literature searches.
• Proficient in research databases and online research methods.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.