Nonprofit Data Capacity
Resources
As a key takeaway from the 2025 Nonprofit Data Capacity Summit, Blueprint and Purpose Analytics have compiled a list of resources, practical tools and shared language to support the continued engagement in this work.
Why we came together
The Summit brought together nonprofit staff, leaders, funders, and partners to reflect on what strong data capacity looks like, where challenges remain, and how to build sustainable, collaborative approaches. The program moved from setting the landscape, to funder perspectives, to breakout sessions on governance, infrastructure, leadership, and practical tools, and closed with a collective call to action.
A Shared Language
Here are some common terms you may have heard throughout the day:
Data Governance: How decisions about data are made, by whom, and with what safeguards.
Linked Microdata: De-identified, record-level data that can be connected across sources under strict controls.
Data Equity: Making sure data practices reduce harm and share benefits fairly with communities.
Data Journey: A way of understanding where an organization is in its use of data and identifying realistic next steps.
What We Learned and Where to Go Next
Didn’t have a chance to take notes, or just want the highlights? Building data capacity takes time, and we know organizations have limited resources. Small steps such as clarifying a project’s purpose, protecting a bit of staff time, or using a shared tool can make a difference. Here are the key themes from the day, with resources to help you explore further and apply in your own context.
Strengthening data capacity and culture
Building data capacity is as much about people and culture as it is about tools. The conversations underscored the need to protect time, resource roles, build buy-in, and make steady, right-sized progress.
Data Capacity Compass Helps organizations choose right-sized next steps and access templates and guides.
CCNDR: Futureproofing A self-guided toolkit to strengthen data management, map workflows, and build staff digital skills using accessible tools.
ONN DEAL Framework Practical approach for integrating data, evidence, and learning across nonprofit work.
Charity Growth Academy Free customized plan to support charities to develop their capacity to use data and technology.
Catalyst Cyber Clinic Free, actionable cybersecurity support for non-profits and other community organizations, delivered by trained Catalyst consultants.
Nonprofit AI Workspace Free, secure, reliable AI workspace tailored for nonprofits, included a AI prompt library and evaluation planner.
AI Academy Live sessions on AI literacy, strategy, and implementation for social impact leaders. (September 24, 2025)
RISE Responsible AI Adoption for Social Impact Pilot program to help nonprofit organizations across Canada responsibly and effectively adopt AI.
AI in Practice
AI offers both promise and pitfalls. Sessions emphasized clarity: knowing when and why AI is useful, and safeguarding privacy, ethics, and mission alignment.
Equity-centred data governance
Speakers emphasized that data practices must reflect community realities. Reducing harm, ensuring reciprocity, and embedding equity in consent and governance structures were consistent priorities.
Toronto Health Equity Resources Guidance on embedding equity in data, evaluation, and community partnerships.
We All Count: Data Equity Tool Practical methods, checklists, and examples to embed equity across the data lifecycle.
NetHope Data Governance Toolkit Step-by-step guidance for designing and implementing nonprofit data governance.
SHared infrastructure and sector data access
The discussions highlighted the importance of building strong underlying infrastructure, such as common tools, linked datasets, and benchmarking models, so organizations of all sizes can participate and benefit.
Canadian Nonprofit Data Lab An emerging initiative to improve access to sector-relevant data assets and analysis to inform programs and policy.
CensusAggregator Free tool to pull key Census indicators by geography, reducing the need for new surveys.
Using Statistics Canada Data for Nonprofits Online training series offered in partnership with Statistics Canada and PolicyWise on how to access and use types of Statistics Canada data.
Blueprint is a nonprofit that helps leaders use data and evidence to tackle complex public policy challenges across Canada. We bring interdisciplinary teams, embrace complexity, and value collaboration across sectors.
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Purpose Analytics is a nonprofit consultancy that helps nonprofits strengthen data practice and connect with peers through shared tools and learning networks.
Stay connected: Join the Nonprofit Data Network