Why did we do this?  

Open data has the potential to power tools that provide solutions to real problems. Although the UK is the world leader in releasing open data, its use in informing real world solutions has been limited and fragmented, with innovative startups lacking support and data expertise to scale to a sustainable business level.

Combining the technical expertise and network of the Open Data Institute and the challenge prize methodology and charitable aims of Nesta, this series aimed to galvanise a new community to use open data as the key ingredient in helping solve social challenges. The challenges helped SMEs and startups to work with data providers, industry experts and business leaders to develop new ways to reuse available data in ways which create sustainable business opportunities.

What did we do?  

We ran a series of seven challenge prizes to support the development of innovative solutions to social challenges using open data. For each challenge, projects competed for a potential £40,000 grand prize. Winning projects were those with the best solution combining open data expertise with a credible plan and market. The Open Data Challenge Prize Series was funded by the Technology Strategy Board and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Who won the challenges?

Jobs Open Data Challenge: Performance in Context (PiC)
Heritage + Culture Open Data Challenge: Culture Everywhere
Food Open Data Challenge: FoodTrade
Housing Open Data Challenge: MoveMaker
Education Open Data Challenge: Skills Route
Energy and Environment Open Data Challenge: Community Energy Manager
Crime and Justice Open Data Challenge: Check That Bike