Turning Data Into a Recognised Asset Class
The Data Asset Foundation is a groundbreaking initiative that gives organisations 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.
What is the Data Asset Foundation Program?
The Data Asset Foundation is a new legal and operational framework that allows organisations to value data as a formal asset—something that can be owned, governed, valued, and monetised. 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™
- Standardised 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-recognised 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:
- Monetisation & ROI – unlock new revenue streams through licensing, collateralisation, and partnerships.
- Governance & Trust – embed EDM Association’s DCAM® and CDMC™ frameworks directly into law, ensuring trusted, audit-ready stewardship.
- Competitive Advantage – gain early access to a jurisdictionally recognised 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, members can position themselves at the forefront of global best practice—transforming data into a formally recognised, governable, and investable asset class.