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Call for Concept NotesAI-Enabled WASHTech solutions for predictive decision-making in assessing potential borehole-drilling sitesI. Introduction to the Frontier Tech Hub and our Demand Led Engagement in Ethiopia The Frontier Tech Hub explores how emerging and frontier technologies—such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, drones, and the Internet of Things—can be applied to address major challenges in international development and engagement. While these technologies are still evolving in their practical application, they hold significant potential for transformative impact. In Ethiopia, we’ve adopted a demand-led approach, grounded in deep ecosystem engagement, to increase the relevance, ownership, and adoption of these technologies. This involves:· Co-defining priority problems with local stakeholders across the ecosystem· Co-designing solutions that respond to locally articulated needs· Articulating demand—clarifying who needs the solution, who will use it, and who might fund or sustain itWe identify key ecosystem components to build upon and assess the systemic challenges that must be addressed to support adoption—such as capacity gaps, interoperability with existing technologies, behaviour change, and access to finance. Through this process, the WASH sector — particularly around predictive decision-making in assessing potential borehole-drilling sites — has emerged as a key priority area. Following a series of engagement workshops held, we identified frontier technologies, for example artificial intelligence (AI), as a promising avenue to enhance these efforts in Ethiopia. We are now keen to engage the ecosystem further to understand what solutions are available and how frontier technologies can be effectively applied in this space. II. Objectives of the CallTo support the design, development, and piloting of an AI-enabled WASHTech solution that enables predictive decision-making in assessing potential borehole-drilling sitesWe are seeking solutions that:● Apply AI to improve WASH outcomes ○ Particularly solutions for predictive decision-making in assessing potential borehole-drilling sites● Support scalable, cost-effective approaches to assessing potential borehole-drilling sites for clean and reliable water sources.● Are designed for or adaptable to low-resource contexts, with a focus on Ethiopia● Align with user needs and local WASH systems Successful concepts may be supported by the Frontier Tech Hub with funding, technical assistance, and ecosystem connections.With the main goals of:● Co-creating a scalable WASH intervention using AI and/or other frontier technology● Aligning the solution with Ethiopia’s WASH infrastructure system and user needs● Test feasibility and gather user feedback● Generate evidence on adoption, engagement, and effectivenessIII. What We're Looking ForWe encourage submissions from:● WASH developers, especially those leveraging AI to enable predictive decision-making in assessing potential borehole-drilling sites. ● AI specialists and technology providers with applications relevant to WASH ● Organizations with experience in WASH technology, particularly in low- and middle-income countries ● Implementation partners operating in Ethiopia or similar education systems across sub-Saharan Africa We welcome both established organizations and emerging innovators, including partnerships or consortiums. IV. Concept Note RequirementsPlease keep submissions concise (max 3 pages) and include:1. Title and summary of the concept2. Problem being addressed – and how it relates to WASHTech solutions for predictive decision-making in assessing potential borehole-drilling sites3. Description of the solution – including use of AI and/or frontier tech4. Target users and delivery context5. Stage of development – idea, prototype, early implementation6. Potential for scale and sustainability7. Experience of the team/organization8. High-level budget estimate or support needed V. Submission DetailsPlease submit your Concept Note to nasrat@r4d.org by COB 11th July 2025. Using the subject line: FT Hub Concept Note – WASHTech In the email please include your:● Organisation name and website● Key contact person (name, email, title)● Attachment of Concept NoteVI. Next StepsSelected concepts will be reviewed and shortlisted for potential:· Funding and technical support· Co-design workshops· Further development or pilot implementation in EthiopiaConcept note submission is not a commitment to implementation but part of an exploratory and collaborative process.Results for Development is an EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled/Affirmative Action Employer committed to fosteringand nurturing an energetic, collaborative and diverse workforce. R4D provides market-competitive salaries and comprehensive employee benefits.
