What is open data?
Open data is data that anyone can access, use and share.
Who is the Open Data Institute and what is its purpose?
The Open Data Institute helps governments and businesses around the world to get data to people who need it. It is independent, nonprofit and nonpartisan, founded in 2012 by Sir Tim Berners-Lee and Sir Nigel Shadbolt. From its headquarters in London and via its global network of startups, members and nodes, the ODI offers training, research and strategic advice for organisations looking to explore the possibilities of data. Read more about us
How can I find and access open data?
We don't actually host a list of datasets, but we do offer advice on where you can find them. Many public sector datasets can be found at data.gov.uk but many private sector organisations tend to publish data on their own websites.
OpenDataMonitor shows where open data is being published and how its developing across Europe.
I want to learn more about open data. How can I do this?
We run training and events to introduce you to open data and its possibilities - no matter what your level of experience is.
Where is the Open Data Institute?
Our HQ address is 5th Floor, Kings Place, 90 York Way, N1 9AG. Kings Place is situated just a few minutes’ walk from King’s Cross and St Pancras stations – you can find out more about accessing Kings Place by clicking here.
Not all events are run at our HQ, so please look at your event confirmation to confirm the address.
I need a refund for my course or event place. Who should I contact?
If you require a refund, please contact [email protected] and we'll get back to you as quickly as we can.
How can I find out about become an ODI Member?
All you need to know is on our membership pages. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to email our friendly team at [email protected].
When and where do lunchtime lectures take place?
We have Friday lunchtime lectures every week unless it's a school holiday.
How can I join your mailing list?
Sign up to our e-newsletter to receive news updates, blogs, events and more.
Can I visit your offices?
We love having visitors, but we can't always guarantee that the relevant person will be around. If you're planning a visit, please call or email usin advance.
A great way to view our offices is through our free Friday lunchtime lectures which take place at our HQ.
How is the Open Data Institute funded?
The ODI secured £10 million over five years from the UK Government (via the UK innovation agency, the Technology Strategy Board), and $2.6 million from Omidyar Network, and is working towards long-term sustainability through match funding and direct revenue.
Income may comprise, for example, corporate sponsorship, memberships, contributions in kind, research grants and other paid work.
The Technology Strategy Board is the UK’s innovation agency. Its goal is to accelerate economic growth by stimulating and supporting business-led innovation. Sponsored by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the Technology Strategy Board brings together business, research and the public sector, supporting and accelerating the development of innovative products and services to meet market needs, tackle major societal challenges and help build the future economy.
Is the Open Data Institute a public body?
The Open Data Institute is a private limited company established as a not-for-profit organisation, limited by guarantee, dedicated to promoting open data. It is not a public body and there are no Government representatives on the ODI board.
The government and public sector will be major beneficiaries of the work of the ODI and the public funding it has received will be vital to demonstrate, encourage, promote and develop the use of open data by the private sector.
How is the Open Data Institute governed?
The Open Data Institute operate with a main Board comprised of the President Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Chairman Professor Nigel Shadbolt, Chief Executive Officer Jeni Tennison, and a number of Non-Executive Directors to oversee the Institute’s activities and strategy.
An Executive Team led by the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the Institute’s day to day activities and reports to the main Board on a regular basis.
An Advisory Board formed from the ODI Partners and other stakeholders will offer advice and support to the main Board on a regular basis, allowing for ODI’s community to directly feed into and influence the direction of the Institute.
What is the Open Data Institute's registered address?
We are a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales under company number 8030289 and our registered office is: 5th Floor, Kings Place, 90 York Way, N1 9AG.
Further questions? Please email [email protected]