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| 30 May 2025 | |
| Press Releases |
Washington, D.C. – May 29, 2025 – The Data Foundation today announced the launch of the Fiscal Intelligence Initiative. The initiative is a short-term collaborative effort to develop actionable, data-focused proposals aimed at reducing improper payments, strengthening payment integrity, and improving government efficiency.
Building on the Data Foundation’s systems approach to data policy and commitment to fiscal responsibility, the initiative will produce policy recommendations with budget scores that deliver meaningful savings and enhance program integrity.
Supported by a grant from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, the Fiscal Intelligence Initiative will leverage the Data Foundation’s expertise in data governance, data systems, technological processes in government, and privacy frameworks.
“By taking a systems approach to data policy—one that considers how laws, regulations, and governance structures interact—we can identify high-impact interventions that prevent improper payments before they occur,” said Nick Hart, President & CEO of the Data Foundation. “This initiative will deliver concrete proposals that policymakers can implement through legislative or administrative action to address a $236 billion annual challenge through improved data systems and governance.”
The initiative responds to significant fiscal challenges facing the United States, with the Congressional Budget Office projecting federal deficits to average $1.9 trillion per year between 2025 and 2034. Improper payments—which totaled over $236 billion in FY2023—represent a major contributor to this fiscal challenge.
By addressing improper payments through evidence-informed solutions, the initiative offers a pragmatic approach to deficit reduction that can potentially gain bipartisan support.
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About the Data Foundation
The Data Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that champions the use of open data and evidence-informed public policy to make society better for everyone. As a nonpartisan think tank, we conduct research, collaborative thought leadership, and advocacy programs that advance practical policies for the creation and use of accessible, trustworthy data. Our activities proactively address emerging data-related needs in the country with the goal of devising realistic solutions, accelerating policy coordination, and advancing innovation. The Data Foundation is recognized by Candid Guidestar with the Platinum Seal of Transparency and received 4-Stars from Charity Navigator. To learn more, visit www.datafoundation.org. (LEI: 254900I43CTC59RFW495)
