Utilizing data for social impact

Creating a tool for building community data capacity to strengthen organizations, partnerships, and communities

WashU Published 2026

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Partners

Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth

Center for Social Development

University of Missouri St. Louis—Community Innovation and Action Center

Building community data capacity requires more than technical expertise—it depends on trusted partnerships, the ability to translate data into action, and accessible tools that empower organizations to create meaningful impact.

Since 2019, Data for Social Impact (DSI) has worked to strengthen community data capabilities in the St. Louis region and beyond. Through collaborative learning, practical resources, and equitable data practices, DSI helps organizations across sectors to build the skills, relationships, and confidence needed to use data to inform decisions and advance shared goals.

Public Exchange and DSI bring complementary strengths to a shared mission: turning knowledge into meaningful community impact. Together, the connect people, evidence, and action—strengthening partnerships, expanding data-driven collaboration, and building a more connected data ecosystems for the region and beyond. “Cultivating Community Impact: A Playbook for Building Community Data Capacity,” is a valuable new tool to amplify the reach of this work.