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Data Asset Foundation Forum

Turning Data Into a Recognized Asset Class

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 Data Asset Foundation is a groundbreaking initiative that gives 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 Foundation 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.

Register Your Interest in the Pilot Program

We are inviting 20 member organizations to join the Data Asset Foundation Pilot Program. Be among the first to help evaluate the program, develop your real-world use case and realize the potential value of your data for your business.

Contact Us about the Pilot Program

 

Join the Community of Practice

Get involved and help shape the future of the data-driven digital economy. Collaborate with other professionals and bring your perspective to this exciting initiative. All professionals are welcome and can register on our EDMConnect site.

Register for the Community of Practice

What is the Data Asset Foundation Program?

The Data Asset Foundation (DAF) 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.

Why it matters for EDM Association Members

For EDM Association members, the DAF program represents a unique opportunity to lead in the emerging data economy:

  • Monetization & ROI – unlock new revenue streams through licensing, collateralization, and partnerships.
  • Governance & Trust – embedding EDM Association’s DCAM® and CDMC frameworks directly into law, ensuring trusted, audit-ready stewardship.
  • Competitive Advantage – gain early access to a jurisdictionally recognized model for data valuation and ownership.
  • Innovation & Collaboration – reduce vendor lock-in, accelerate product development, and enable cross-sector data-sharing with legal certainty.

By adopting the DAF framework, EDM Association members can position themselves at the forefront of global best practice—transforming data into a formally recognized, governable, and investable asset class.

For more information

We welcome participation and expressions of interest from all our members and other interested parties. Explore the below resources: