Have you seen ways that open data could inform the work of community groups, non-profits, or researchers in your city, but haven’t been sure how to make it happen? Or is the city tackling big issues that you think open data could help with?

Applications are now open to be the next pilot project for Tactical Data Engagement (TDE). TDE is our framework for facilitating community use of open data. It is designed to help cities put open data to work solving local challenges and improving residents’ lives.

Three TDE pilots are already underway: two helping the City of Glendale, Arizona improve Development Services information and improve procurement practices, and one helping the City of Madison, Wisconsin advance their complete neighborhoods work.

Now we’re looking for the next city interested in piloting TDE. The selected city will receive in-person and online technical assistance from Sunlight staff. Specifically, we’ll help the selected city (1) Analyze demand for city information, (2) Research potential open data users and use cases, (3) Plan and user-test, and ultimately (4) Implement a project to support impactful community use of city open data.

We’re looking for a city ready to jump in on making their open data useful to community groups. And while we will only provide assistance for one project right now, any community that applies will have a head start on assistance opportunities in the future.

Any U.S. city with a population of at least 30,000 is eligible to apply. If you do not work for a city government, you are welcome to nominate your city but a staff contact will be required to complete the application. Applications will be accepted until Friday, February 9, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. EST.

If you have questions about this opportunity, eligibility, or the application process, email us any time at opencities@sunlightfoundation.com.

Cities are making incredible strides expanding public access to public information. We’re excited to help cities put that data into action addressing community challenges. If you have ideas for how your city could do this work, submit an application to be a TDE pilot city today.