Data Asset Foundations Forum

Data is widely recognized as the most critical asset of the digital age. Yet the global market lacks a trusted, standardized legal vehicle and clear definition around data assets and their value. The groundbreaking Data Asset Foundations initiative will give organizations the legal and commercial tools to value data as a true asset. By combining trusted governance standards with statutory recognition, Data Asset Foundations transform data into a source of measurable value, trust, and innovation — unlocking opportunities for growth across industries.

The Data Asset Foundations initiative is led by the government of the Isle of Man to forge the future of the data economy. EDM Association is proud to partner on this unique initiative to help organizations around the world turn their data into a valuable asset.

What is the Data Asset Foundation Program?

The Data Asset Foundation is a new legal and operational framework that allows organizations to value data as a formal asset—something that can be owned, governed, valued, and monetized. Built on the Isle of Man’s proven Foundations Act, a DAF provides:

• A legal entity to hold and manage data assets
• A Data Asset Register to establish transparent ownership and rights
• Embedded governance using global standards of the EDM Association’s frameworks: DCAM^® and CDMC
• Standardized valuation methods to treat data like collateral or investment-grade capital
• A secure distribution platform for trusted sharing and collaboration

It bridges legal certainty with commercial utility, turning data from an under-recognized resource into a capital asset that can drive measurable value.