Application Guide
How to Apply for The AI Access Initiative, Program Manager
at Evidence Action
🏢 About Evidence Action
Evidence Action uniquely focuses on scaling proven, cost-effective interventions that measurably reduce poverty in Africa and Asia, with a rigorous evidence-based approach. Working here offers the opportunity to contribute to programs that have already impacted millions of lives while maintaining a data-driven, results-oriented culture.
About This Role
As Program Manager for The AI Access Initiative, you'll lead the development and implementation of AI-focused programs that align with Evidence Action's mission of scaling evidence-based solutions. This role is impactful because it bridges cutting-edge technology with practical poverty reduction, potentially creating new scalable interventions.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve coordinating with AI researchers to assess promising applications, designing implementation plans for pilot programs, analyzing data from existing initiatives, and collaborating with field teams across time zones to adapt solutions to local contexts. You'll balance strategic planning with hands-on program management while maintaining focus on measurable outcomes.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Evidence Action Is Looking For
- Experience managing complex programs in international development or tech-for-good sectors
- Demonstrated ability to translate evidence-based research into practical program implementation
- Understanding of AI/ML applications in social impact contexts, particularly in low-resource settings
- Proven track record of remote collaboration with diverse, global teams
📝 Tips for Applying to Evidence Action
Explicitly connect your experience to Evidence Action's 'scale what works' philosophy in your application materials
Highlight any experience with AI/ML applications in development contexts, even if tangential
Demonstrate familiarity with their existing programs (Dispensers for Safe Water, Deworm the World) to show genuine interest
Emphasize remote work experience and self-management skills given the US-based remote structure
Quantify impact in previous roles using metrics similar to Evidence Action's cost-per-beneficiary approach
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your understanding of Evidence Action's evidence-based scaling model and how AI fits within it", 'Specific examples of managing programs from conception to implementation in resource-constrained settings', 'Experience balancing innovation with practical implementation constraints', 'How your background prepares you to work effectively in a fully remote, US-based role for an organization focused on Africa/Asia']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Evidence Action's 'beta' stage criteria and how they evaluate new programs for scaling
- → Their existing technology initiatives and how AI might complement current work
- → The organization's funding model and how it influences program design decisions
- → Recent publications or presentations by Evidence Action leadership on technology in development
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing on AI technical expertise without connecting it to practical implementation in low-resource settings
- Generic statements about wanting to 'make a difference' without demonstrating understanding of Evidence Action's specific evidence-based approach
- Proposing overly theoretical AI solutions without considering cost-effectiveness and scalability constraints
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Evidence Action!