Description

Columbia University’s Data Science Institute (DSI) runs this seed fund in partnership with Pilot City’s Pitchfest matchmaking program. It connects Columbia researchers with New York City agencies facing complex, data-rich challenges, supporting impartial analysis and technical expertise that can benefit communities across the five boroughs. Researchers gain access to real-world data and retain the opportunity to publish findings.

The fund supports projects that address specific agency challenges while advancing or applying data science and artificial intelligence, including predictive analytics and machine learning. Researchers and agency partners co-develop outcomes such as prototypes, policy tools, pilots, evaluations, or implementation-ready recommendations. Projects must produce meaningful results within six months and show a clear path from research findings to decisions that improve agency programs, policies, operations, or services.