Nonprofit Data Capacity Navigator
Find the right data support for where you are.
The Nonprofit Data Capacity Navigator is a free, bilingual service that matches Canadian nonprofits to assessments, resources, and practical advice, no matter where you are in your data journey.
Free and accessible
Practical and nonprofit-focused
Independent and technology-neutral
Applicable for variety of nonprofit staff
Many nonprofits want to use data to learn, improve their programs, make decisions, and report on their work. Every organization requires resources, skills, and practices to effectively collect, manage, analyze, and use data to fulfill its mission. This is referred to as “data capacity.”
But it can be hard to know where to start. There are many tools and services to choose from. However, staff often have limited time, and some advice may not fit the day-to-day realities of nonprofit work. In some cases, support is also tied to specific products or vendors, making it harder to find guidance that truly meets an organization’s needs. Developed by nonprofits, the Navigator helps you understand your organization’s current capacity to collect, use, and manage data and connects you with tools and resources to support your next steps.
Your data journey starts with a 5-minute assessment.
The support offers:
No cost to participate, and no advanced data expertise is required. Organizations can start with a simple self-assessment and explore support at their own pace.
Guidance tailored to your organization's goals, capacity, and context. The focus is on realistic, achievable steps that help you make better use of your existing tools, processes, and systems.
No promotion of specific software, platforms, or vendors. Its purpose is to help your organization make informed decisions about the solutions that best fit your needs.
Tools designed to be used by any staff who have some responsibility for collecting, managing, and using data in their organization; whether you are a data specialist in your organization, an accidental techie, or someone who is looking to learn more.
Start in one place. Go where your results take you.
Data Maturity Assessment
The first step in your Navigator journey. This diagnostic tool provides a clear picture of where your organization currently stands across seven key themes spanning people, purpose, and practical data use.
Data Journey Maps
Building on your data maturity assessment results, these offer practical actions and milestones to help you plan your path forward.
Free Advice from Experts
A coordinated entry point that matches your organization to free, tailored coaching from experienced data practitioners who understand nonprofit realities.
*Offered in both official languages
Peer Learning Cohorts
Stay tuned for more information on peer learning cohorts for the Data Journey Maps.
*Currently only offered in English
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Project Partners
This effort was made possible thanks to the generous support of our funders and partners, committed to strengthening nonprofit data capacity across Canada.
Special thanks to our funders:
And funded by the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Program:
