Global: Using Innovative Technology and Data Solutions to Fight COVID-19

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on lower- to middle-income countries and an effective pandemic response is crucial to effective recovery.

DT Global part of the FCDO-funded COVIDAction programme that uses innovative technology and data solutions to fight COVID-19 in lower- to middle-income countries. We lead the Data Challenge, which uses web, mobile, and other digital data solutions in four themes (EpiModels, Responsible Data, Data Collection and Data Sources, and Data Analytics and Use) and funds 12 innovative approaches and tools.

To date, project results include:

• Launched the Vaccine Data Co-lab, a call for data approach to support the roll out of COVID vaccines in lower- to middle-income countries. This multi-stakeholder paired existing solutions in need of funding with governmental needs in lower- to middle-income countries, focusing on prioritization and tracking of vaccinations, and combatting misinformation and vaccine hesitancy. The Vaccine Data Co-Lab funded five grants to local organizations working in partnership with government stakeholders to get shots in arms. Partnered with COVAX GIS Working Group and co-facilitated a convening with donors to address hybrid funding approaches for innovative funding in emergencies.
• Funded 17 grantees, largely located in Sub-Saharan Africa, over two years for work on vaccines.