Almost everything nonprofits do (needs assessments, grant applications, program targeting, advocacy) sits on public data from the Census, CDC, and other federal agencies. But that foundation is getting shakier.

Most place-based initiatives lack a clear, ongoing view of how their community is performing on the outcomes that matter most to them. Without that visibility, it's hard to set long-term goals, steer programming, or show funders and policymakers that the work is moving the needle.

Every nonprofit benefits from engaging with elected officials, but preparing for those moments can be overwhelming.

You're collecting better data. Now what? How to turn a strong CRM into real insights and compelling stories

Welcome to Making Space, our newsletter for nonprofit leaders navigating the real and challenging work of becoming more data-driven. In this issue: Beyond the Silo - Why do organizations working in the same area often have little visibility into each other's efforts? How to build a data-sharing platform. Critical Cartography Feature - Mapping the toll of urban renewal in Providence Awesome Nonprofit of the Month - NY Appleseed Let's get into it. Olivia & Charles from North

Happy 2026! This year, we’re changing things up.

This month, we’re exploring what Executive Directors of some of New York’s most important nonprofits have to say about their journey in becoming more data-driven.

This month, we’re exploring how visualize impact at different scales, mapping diversity, place-based initiative support and what will happen at SOMOS!

This month, we’re exploring how to improve your annual appeals, pollution plumes and relief stands in NYC.

This month, we’re exploring how to collect, visualize, and communicate your program data systematically and effectively.

This month, we’re exploring how to create impact dashboards that not only look good but also help nonprofits make better decisions and drive meaningful change.

Learn the 5-part blueprint for storytelling that drives impact, plus stories of data tools saved by activists and our new partnership with ESRI.