Data Intermediaries and the Future of Equitable Data Governance?

As AI technologies are becoming more persistent in our lives and economies, data becomes an increasingly vital asset, urgent questions arise around who owns, controls, and benefits from it. This workshop explores the growing role of data intermediaries—such as data cooperatives and data trusts—that steward data on behalf of others, and how they can reduce power asymmetries, promote equitable digital governance and even transform collective bargaining in disrupted labour markets.

We will examine models of trusted data stewardship, that balance individual rights, collective responsibilities, and the public interest. Drawing from ideas and examples of data collaboratives and public data trusts, participants will explore how intermediaries can advance transparency, accountability, and inclusion in various sectors.

Through interactive sessions, we will collectively explore how intermediary models can empower communities, protect rights, and enable responsible innovation. Key questions include: What does meaningful data participation look like for workers and communities? How can intermediaries be made accountable? And what frameworks are needed to build trust in complex data value chains?

This workshop invites policymakers, researchers, technologists, and civil society to collectively shape a future where data governance advances fairness, agency, and social good.