We know that funders repeatedly ask organizations for the same information when applying for grants, often in different formats, adding effort to already overburdened staff. The Philanthropy Data Commons (PDC), built the data infrastructure to change that.
What is the
Philanthropy Data Commons?
The PDC improves and simplifies how funders and nonprofits share their data. The PDC connects funders, nonprofits, and partners, allowing secure and consent-based data sharing.
The PDC allows organizations seeking funding to share one application with participating funders. The goal is increased visibility for valuable work without having to do repetitive data entry.
Organizations are always in control of their data, what data is shared, and who it is shared with. The PDC simply provides the platform to seamlessly interface with different grants management systems and other databases in the sector.
The PDC is available at no cost to grantseekers. Any organization can create an account with the PDC; they do not need to be a grantee of the MacArthur Foundation.
The choice to share or not share data with the PDC has no impact on MacArthur’s funding decisions.
How to Engage with the PDC
If an organization chooses to opt-in, there are multiple ways to engage.
MacArthur grantees or nonprofits completing a MacArthur grant application for the first time will see a section in the application to provide consent to share organizational data. If consent is provided, the organization’s data will be shared with the PDC when the grant and any subsequent grants are approved. Organizations can decide at any time to withdraw consent and stop sharing data.
To manage data, organizations will need to sign the PDC’s Data Use Agreement, which grants access to user accounts.
To view, add, control, and edit information in the PDC, organizations will need to complete the intake form directly on the PDC’s website. Account access is available to any organization, whether or not they are a MacArthur grantee. After completing the form, the PDC will contact the individual who created the account to assist with setting up and navigating the process. Account access is available to any organization, whether or not they are a MacArthur grantee.
Learn more about the PDC and get answers to common questions.