Media Party, in partnership with the World Bank, has launched the “Data 360 Global Challenge”. The problem is clear: the world is facing an unprecedented crisis of trust. The spread of sophisticated digital manipulation, misinformation, and the fragmentation of shared truth threaten democracy and public well-being.
That is why the call to action is urgent and our mission is vital: to convene journalists, developers, entrepreneurs, and technologists from around the world to develop next-generation verification technologies that strengthen information integrity. Participants must create tools that leverage the World Bank’s Data360 API as a verified database to authenticate information and restore public trust.
Evaluation and technical assistance
The challenge process is structured to identify the most promising projects through two phases, including conceptual proposals and prototype development. To ensure that solutions meet the required technical and impact standards, a panel of experts and mentors will evaluate and guide the finalist teams.
Below, we are proud to present the panel of experts who will join us for the Data 360 Global Challenge:
Brittani Kollar (Deputy Director, MediaWise — Poynter Institute): Oversees global partnerships for a media literacy initiative that has reached millions. Her experience in scaling programs funded by major philanthropic partners provides critical insight into the real-world accessibility of submitted solutions.
Craig Hammer (Manager, Development Data Group — The World Bank): Manager of the Global Data Facility, the primary multilateral financing mechanism for data priorities in low- and middle-income countries. He leads the Bank’s strategic initiative to enhance “AI-readiness” and global discoverability for its data assets.
Lisa Gutermuth (Senior Program Officer, AI and Democracy Incubator — Mozilla Foundation): Directs grant-making and fellowship programs at the intersection of AI and democratic accountability. She oversees strategy for Mozilla’s Data Futures Lab, focusing on redistributing power in the global data economy.
Irene Jay Liu (Director, AI, Emerging Technology & Regulation — International Fund for Public Interest Media): Leads strategic programming on AI adoption and tech policy for independent journalism in under-resourced markets. A former Pulitzer Prize finalist, she brings a combination of editorial judgment and institutional funding experience.
Sasa Vucinic (Co-founder and Managing Partner — North Base Media): A pioneer in media impact investing and co-founder of the Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF). Vucinic brings unparalleled expertise in building sustainable news businesses in challenging environments and managing venture capital focused on digital media and supporting technologies.
Mariano Blejman (Founder & Director — Media Party | Information Integrity Tech Initiative): Architect of the Information Integrity Tech Initiative and expert in designing open innovation challenges that channel institutional investment into high-impact media projects.
Join the challenge!
Don’t miss the opportunity to lead the technological innovation needed to safeguard information transparency. The Data 360 Global Challenge is an open call for multidisciplinary teams eager to make a real impact.
Key participation details:
- Deadline: You have until March 31st to submit your proposal.
- Prizes: The winning team will receive a cash prize starting at USD 5,000, along with support to continue developing their solution.
- Additional Benefits: All participants will receive direct mentorship from World Bank and Media Party experts, international exposure, and access to a global innovation network.
The future of data integrity depends on the solutions we build today. Review the detailed requirements and submit your proposal before the call for applications closes.
