New Commons Challenge 2025

The New Commons Challenge is a joint initiative led by Microsoft and the Open Data Policy Lab, aiming to seed new data commons to improve AI accessibility and usefulness. The challenge seeks proposals to create or enhance data commons that enable better disaster response and localized decision-making, with prizes including funding and mentorship. Two winning proposals will receive substantial funding, mentorship, technical support, and access to a global network of experts.

US$100,000 in funding per winning proposal; mentorship on establishing and managing data commons; technical support as needed; access to a global network of experts.

Applicants must be affiliated with an established organization. Government entities are not eligible. Applicants may be nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, startups, or development organizations.

Applications proceed in two phases: submit a concept note by June 2, 2025; top proposals will be invited to submit a full proposal by June 16, 2025, with final submissions by July 14, 2025.