The purpose of the evaluation was to conduct an evidence based, highly consultative and participative formative evaluation of the UNFPA Innovation Initiative. The objectives were to provide learning inputs to managers on implementing the first phase of the Innovation Initiative; improving programme design, processes and systems; and informing the next Strategic Plan and UNFPA strategies in innovation. This was the first formative evaluation conducted at UNFPA. The evaluation was highly responsive to the institutional context, allowing real-time feedback to programme staff and facilitating a continuous adaptive loop to decision-making needs. The results of the exercise informed the development of the new strategic plan and new innovation strategy. The evaluation included a comparative study of the status of innovation across 10 UN agencies.

The evaluation is now complete and the following evaluation products are available:

• Main evaluation report (Volume I) and annexes (Volume II and Volume III)
• Executive Summary
• Comparative Study on How United Nations Innovation Network Members Approach Innovation (main report and tables by agency)