# The Coleridge Initiative

### Overview
The Coleridge Initiative is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the use of data in public decision-making. By working closely with government agencies, Coleridge fosters data-driven policies through secure data sharing and advanced analytics. Its mission is to enhance data literacy, ensure data privacy, and build collaborations across state and federal agencies.

### Core Offerings
#### 1. **Administrative Data Research Facility (ADRF)**  
   The ADRF is a secure, cloud-based, FedRAMP-authorized platform that supports the linking and analysis of sensitive data across multiple agencies. Designed for government use, the ADRF offers a robust environment for research analysts to access, analyze, and share data securely, adhering to stringent privacy controls.

#### 2. **Applied Data Analytics (ADA) Training**  
   The ADA program builds capacity among government staff by teaching them to analyze real-world data. Participants develop open-source tools and apply modern analytical methods to address pressing policy challenges. The ADA program has expanded nationally, impacting both state and federal agencies.

### Mission
The Coleridge Initiative’s mission is to democratize access to data for public good, ensuring that governments have the necessary tools and skills to harness data in a secure manner. By fostering collaboration and training, Coleridge helps improve policy outcomes for society at large.

### Key Achievements
- **FedRAMP Authorization**: ADRF operates on AWS GovCloud, meeting stringent federal security standards.
- **Innovative Training Programs**: Over 130 projects completed by state agencies using ADRF.
- **Partnerships with Leading Institutions**: Collaborations with top universities and foundations, including the U.S. Census Bureau, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Overdeck Family Foundation.
- **Government Innovation Award**: Recipient of the 2018 Government Innovation Award for its work in data collaboration.

### Security & Privacy
Coleridge adheres to the highest standards in data privacy and security. The ADRF platform follows the “Five Safes” framework:
1. **Safe Projects** – Only agency-approved projects are allowed.
2. **Safe People** – Access is restricted to vetted and trained individuals.
3. **Safe Settings** – Secure cloud-based infrastructure prevents unauthorized data leaks.
4. **Safe Data** – Comprehensive data encryption and hashing methods.
5. **Safe Outputs** – Strict controls on data exports to prevent disclosure risks.

### Programs & Initiatives
- **Democratizing Our Data Challenge**: An initiative aimed at scaling innovative products using government administrative data to inform public policy.
- **Cross-Agency Collaborations**: The ADRF enables data sharing across state lines and agencies to create new insights and policy solutions.

### Contact
- **Website**: [Coleridge Initiative](https://coleridgeinitiative.org)
- **Email**: info@coleridgeinitiative.org
- **LinkedIn**: [Coleridge Initiative LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/coleridgeinitiative)