The Data Spaces Support Centre (DSSC) has published a map of the communities and initiatives it works with across Europe. It covers the organisations involved in building, governing, standardising, and scaling data spaces, and shows where the DSSC connects to the wider European digital ecosystem.
Data spaces do not exist in isolation. AI infrastructure, cloud computing, standardisation, digital policy, and sector-specific regulation all shape what data spaces need to do and how they are built. The DSSC engages actively with communities across this landscape, and that engagement is structured and purposeful.
The map reflects the scope of that engagement. It covers research and innovation communities, AI initiatives, standardisation bodies, innovation hubs, policymakers, and international actors. Their knowledge feeds directly into the guidance assets and policy work the DSSC produces.
Knowledge flows in both directions
Insights gathered through workshops, formal liaisons, and ongoing collaboration inform how the Blueprint, Toolbox, and other guidance assets are developed and updated. The DSSC also shares knowledge outward, helping communities understand how data spaces work and what they require.
For standardisation, this matters particularly. The DSSC liaises with European and international standardisation bodies to ensure that practical experience from the field informs standards development, and that emerging standards are reflected in DSSC guidance.
The DSSC's community engagement also serves a policy function. As the operational arm of the European Data Innovation Board (EDIB), the DSSC surfaces field-level insights from across sectors and communities to inform European data policy. The connections built through the Liaisons and Collaborations Group are part of how that happens in practice.
Initial mapping of data spaces stakeholders in the wider ecosystem
A first version, with more to come
The current map is a starting point. As the project progresses, the DSSC will develop a more structured presentation of its community, building on what the first DSSC project established. The map on dssc.eu will be updated as new stakeholders become relevant and priorities evolve.
Organisations involved in data sharing and looking to connect with the DSSC can submit a support ticket. Missed our kick-off webinar? Catch up on our plans and learn more about our communities by watching the recording on YouTube.