Each year, the Open Data Institute (ODI) hosts an annual event to explore current data issues, from emerging technology to art and culture. The event brings together people from governments, business and civil society to share their thoughts and ideas.
This year the theme is “Data <> People”. The theme reflects how over the past year or so, the role of data has come into sharper focus for many. From misinformation to health services, we have all become “data people”. Data, and how we use it, is no longer seen as something that only technical professions should worry about. Now more than ever, we’re conscious of how we produce, use and share data, and the decisions made using data about us.
This year’s Summit theme is closely aligned with the mission of MediaFutures. MediaFutures believes that a society that uses data to inform its decisions is more likely to be productive and sustainable. What’s more, engaging and including citizens and diverse groups in these processes is vital to a healthy society. We support projects that empower people by helping them to engage with quality journalism, science education and democratic processes. We hope that the resulting products, services, artworks and experiences will transform the way people consume information, and the ways experts make decisions and contribute to society.
We’re excited to announce that we’re planning to showcase some of the work of MediaFutures projects at the event, which will take place online. We’re still working out the details, but if you’re looking for inspiration, visit our current projects page, or view some of the online artworks that featured at last year’s Summit, from the ODI’s art programme Data As Culture.
Welcome Fund
The ODI provides a Welcome Fund to help people to overcome obstacles that might stop them attending conferences like the ODI Summit, whether that’s the cost of the tickets, or the accessibility of the platform the event will use. It also recognises that people from some communities face greater barriers to participation such as structural racism, sexism and ableism.
If you cannot afford the price of a ticket, face structural disadvantages or live in a low- or middle-income country, apply to the Welcome Fund here.