Open Data 101
Eight lessons on open data — what it is, where to find it in Canada, how licences work, and how to use it responsibly.
What Is Open Data
Open data is data that anyone can access, use, and share freely. Learn what makes data "open" and why it matters.
Read Lesson →Benefits of Open Data
Open data drives transparency, innovation, and better public services. Learn the concrete benefits for citizens, businesses, and governments.
Read Lesson →Open Data Licences
Not all open data can be used the same way. Learn about common licences including Creative Commons and the Open Government Licence.
Read Lesson →Canadian Open Data Sources
A guide to the major open data portals in Canada — federal, provincial, and municipal — and what you can find there.
Read Lesson →Municipal Open Data
Cities across Canada publish open data on everything from transit to parks to business licences. Learn what's available and how to use it.
Read Lesson →Provincial Open Data
Every Canadian province has an open data portal. Learn what provincial governments publish and how to find it.
Read Lesson →Federal Open Data
The Government of Canada publishes thousands of datasets. Learn about open.canada.ca and what federal data is available.
Read Lesson →Responsible Data Use
Open data comes with responsibilities. Learn how to cite sources, respect licences, protect privacy, and use data ethically.
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