Deadline: August 14, 2026
Applications are open for the New Commons Indigenous Language Data Commons Incubator 2026. The New Commons Incubator is a six-month capacity-building program that supports Indigenous-led teams in developing a data commons, which are community governed datasets that enable responsible, equitable use for public-interest purposes.
Through mentorship, training, and peer learning, the Incubator helps participants move from early-stage data commons ideas to clear, actionable, and fundable proposals.
Benefits
Selected participants will receive capacity building support to:
- Develop a fundable proposal for a data commons initiative
- Build a governance model aligned with Indigenous data sovereignty
- Strengthen their approach to applying data and AI for public-interest purposes and equitably distributing benefits
- Connect with a network of experts, partners, and potential funders
By the end of the program, participants will have a pitch ready proposal to advance their initiative.
Eligibility
This Incubator is intended for individuals/teams who identify as Indigenous, or are working in close partnership with Indigenous communities.
If you do not identify as Indigenous, you should be able to demonstrate:
- A clear, trusted, and ongoing relationship with an Indigenous community
- Evidence of community awareness, participation, or endorsement of the initiative
- A required letter of support that provides evidence of both the relationship and the community’s support for the initiative
If a finalized letter is not yet available, you may upload a placeholder or draft and provide the final version upon request.
Application
The form will ask you for:
- General information about you and your team (if applicable)
- A two-page statement about your idea for a data commons (find the suggested template HERE)
- A letter confirming that your institution supports your participation in the
- Incubator and the continued development of the initiative if selected
- [Optional] A space to upload a letter explaining your relationship with an Indigenous community
- A declaration if you are selected
For more information, visit Indigenous Language Data Commons Incubator.
