Civic Support Enterprise FAQs

What type of organizations will you consider for pro-bono data support?
We will consider nonprofit organizations who work in the housing and/or community and economic development spaces. We will also consider public sector organizations, including city and county departments or agencies. In addition, we are particularly interested in partnering with organizations that work in and serve communities of color. If your organization does not fall under one of these categories but you are still interested, please feel free to reach out regardless.

What size projects will you consider?
NDSC will consider pro-bono data support services for projects that require 5 – 15 hours of consultation. For larger projects, NDSC will seek grant funding or fees for service from the requesting organization. Please reach out to ebschoen@usc.edu to learn more or discuss your project.

What are some examples of different sized projects?
Small-scale, pro bono projects have included the development of a customized map for a local community development collaborative. Larger scale, grant funded projects include a recent analysis of the interplay between housing, workforce and economic development, and the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by people traveling in and out of the Slauson Corridor to work within the City of Los Angeles, and the development a community needs assessment in Little Tokyo.

Do I need to have a fully formed idea to apply?
No, your idea or proposed project does not need to be fully formed in order to apply. We welcome ideas at all stages and would be happy to think through your needs with you.

How will project deliverables be shared?
Pro-bono consulting projects will be publicly shared on the NDSC website, in newsletters, and on social media. Public dissemination of larger scale projects and private consultations can be negotiated.

What is a social enterprise?
A social enterprise is an organization that generates revenues through activities that are directly tied to the social purpose of the organization, balancing both a social mission with a financial mission. While NDSC has operated with traditional philanthropic support and corporate sponsorships since 2017, the launch of the NDSC Social Support Enterprise expands the range of NDSC’s mission-relevant revenue generating activities, including the addition of fee-for-service activities.

How can I learn more about the NDSC Civic Support Enterprise?
Please feel free to reach out at any time with questions! You may contact Elly Schoen, Neighborhood Data for Social Change Project Manager, at ebschoen@usc.edu to learn more.