Data Labs
JOIN AN AWARD-WINNING PROGRAM
Data Labs has been honored by Fast Company’s Next Big Things in Tech 2023 for its ability to make data-driven governing a reality and its promise to shape the future of governments. Join this unique opportunity to be at the forefront of government innovation and help redefine the landscape of data-driven decision-making.
What is Data Labs?
Data Labs is a program that uses a human-centered design approach to help states launch data-sharing projects that improve government services and the lives of residents. We do this by convening cross-functional state teams, offering hands-on assistance, and leveraging insights from subject matter experts.
Offered by Georgetown University's Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation and the National Governors Association, Data Labs empowers governments to make better data-informed decisions by using data more effectively, efficiently, and equitably.
WHO IS THIS FOR?
Data Labs is for teams of data and policy experts in state government who want to launch a data-sharing project to improve data-informed decision making. States do not need to have a Chief Data Officer (CDO) to participate. Learn about previous Data Labs state projects.
IS MY PROJECT A GOOD FIT?
Data Labs can help teams scope a new project or build momentum for a project that is already in development. While we welcome projects at different stages of maturity, we typically select projects that demonstrate alignment with the Governor's priorities, as we believe this sets teams up for the greatest likelihood of success.
For a one-on-one consultation to discuss your project idea, or to request our attendance at your next team meeting, contact us at datalabs@georgetown.edu.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Tailored to each state’s needs, Data Labs amplifies best practices and offers an approachable space to innovate and collaborate with peers. Over eight months, states receive hands-on support and spend one to two hours per week developing a data project of their choosing through workshops, office hours with experts, and tactical team meetings. By the end of the program, states walk away with a customized action plan and deliverable to support implementation of their data project.
States will need the following to apply: a draft of their project proposal, a list of project team members, and documentation that demonstrates the project’s alignment with priorities of the governor’s office. Data Labs is a no-cost program.
JOIN DATA LABS TO...
Learn from the best. Gain invaluable insights through interaction with national experts, practitioners, and peers.
Receive expert technical assistance. Benefit from objective, hands-on technical assistance tailored to your team's unique data challenges.
Foster statewide collaboration. Build robust partnerships between data and policy professionals within your state to enhance coordination and efficiency.
Champion data innovation in government. Establish streamlined data-sharing and open-data practices, and shift government culture toward responsible data governance.
current issue areas
We invite proposals for new or existing data projects that support the following policy areas.
WORKFORCE
TRANSITIONS
Understanding pathways to employment and improving access to career opportunities.
STUDENT
OUTCOMES
Using longitudinal data to improve student progress and outcomes, from preschool to post-secondary school.
SAFETY NET
BENEFITS
Improving access to and administration of programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, EITC, CTC, and UI.
2024 Dates
See About page for details.
MARCH 29
Proposals Due
APRIL 5
States Accepted
APRIL 26
Program Kick Off
NOVEMBER 15
Program Wrap Up
Advisors
Data Labs is made possible through the advice and support of our partners, who have played a key role in shaping this initiative.
CONTACT US
Our goal is to ensure as many states as possible can submit a proposal. We are happy to work with you to put together a strong project proposal, get in touch with another agency, and/or develop a robust project plan.
For more information, see the FAQ page or contact us at datalabs@georgetown.edu.
About the Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation
The Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation at Georgetown University reimagines systems for public impact using design, data, and technology. Our projects test new ways for public and private institutions to leverage data and analytics, digital technologies, and service design to help more people.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1908, the National Governors Association (NGA) is the bipartisan organization of the nation’s 55 Governors. Through NGA, Governors share best practices, address issues of national and state interest and share innovative solutions that improve state government and support the principles of federalism.