Governance
The National Cultural Data Observatory (NCDO) is a collaborative, sector-led initiative to improve how data is collected, shared and used across the UK’s cultural ecosystem. Led by four core delivery partners, it brings together sector bodies, policymakers at all levels, public and other funders, academic and other researchers, consultants and advisors and data experts.
Having completed its blueprint phase at the end of 2025, the NCDO is now moving into an implementation phase, focused on securing the resources to turn the blueprint’s shared principles and technical foundations into practical tools and services for the sector.
We’ll also be providing access to demonstrators to showcase how the NCDO can support practical data use across policy, practice and research.
We actively invite you and other organisations and individuals to sign up to the manifesto, be part of a network at the forefront of collective intelligence in culture and help shape the future direction of the NCDO. And, where possible, to collaborate with us in making it a reality.
Core Partners
Centre for Cultural Value
The Audience Agency
MyCake
Culture CommonsNCDO Blueprint collaborators
University of Leeds
University of Sheffield
Leeds Institute for Data Analytics
De Montfort University - LeicesterAdvisory Group
Department for Culture Media & Sport
Arts Council England
Historic England
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Bradford 2025 City of Culture
Local Government Association
Spirit of 2012
National Lottery Heritage Fund
University of Southampton
British Film Institute
Chief Cultural & Leisure Officers Association (CLOA)
University of Manchester
United Kingdom National Commission for UNESCO
Warwick Business School
Cultural Learning Alliance
British Council
The National Archives
Born in BradfordNCDO blueprint project funded by
UKRI Economic and Social Research Council
Research EnglandData providers
Data ThistleBradford 2025 City of CultureThe Audience AgencyMyCake
Office for National Statistics
Geographic Data ServiceWebsite powered by
The Audience Agency