Across the world, civil society organisations and local governments are tackling some of the most pressing social challenges of our time. Yet, they often face a stark and growing divide: despite the exponential growth in data generation, access to data is becoming increasingly restricted. We are approaching a “data winter”—a moment where those serving vulnerable populations are systematically excluded from data ecosystems that could transform their work.
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The Data Collaboratives Accelerator, led by The Data Tank, is designed to respond to this crisis. The initiative supports community-based organisations and local institutions in building responsible, participatory, and scalable data collaboratives—within just six months.
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Data collaboration represents a new form of partnership that goes beyond traditional public-private models. It brings together participants from different sectors—private companies, research institutions, civil society organizations, community and government agencies—to make data accessible and re-usable to help solve public problems. Setting up a data collaborative is a complex, time-consuming process. This accelerator is purpose-built to change that. Drawing on GovLab and The Data Tank’s proven Data Stewardship Canvas methodology, the programme guides participants through data maturity assessment, problem formulation, data discovery, governance design, and implementation planning—culminating in real-world, action-ready collaboratives.
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The programme prioritises impact in areas such as health, education, agriculture, climate, and employability, and will be delivered in close collaboration with trusted anchor partners in each country. These partners will help co-host the accelerator, support participants through mentorship, and provide critical local context and networks.
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By embedding participatory governance, ethical data reuse and inclusive engagement, The Data Collaborative accelerator seeks to build a future where data serves the public good - not just private interests.
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We are currently exploring funding opportunities to launch the data collaboratives. Organisations interested in partnering, participating, or supporting the accelerator are warmly invited to reach out and shape this journey with us. By embedding participatory governance, ethical data reuse, and inclusive engagement, the Data Collaboratives Accelerator truly puts people—not platforms—at the center of data. Applications will open soon, and we look forward to welcoming the first cohort of organizations ready to lead the way in building a more inclusive, trusted, and effective data future. 
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This is more than a programme. It’s a movement—to make data work with communities, not around them.

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