Navigating Challenges and Strategies for Data Sharing and Integration in the Data Space Era

Data Week 2025, Europe's premier event for data and AI-driven innovation, will take place in Athens on May 27-28th of May. Hosted by the Big Data Value Association (BDVA), this gathering brings together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore cutting-edge advancements in data spaces, AI ethics, interoperability, and value-driven innovation. Under the theme "Odyssey of AI: Navigating the Data Seas," the event draws inspiration from Homer’s epic journey, symbolizing the challenges and opportunities in harnessing data’s full potential. Participants will engage in high-level discussions, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities, shaping the future of data-driven collaboration.

DS2 project together with its sister projects, CyclOps, CEDAR, NOUS, and PLIADES will have a joint workshop on the 27th of May at 14:00.

The workshop aims to explore the diverse profiles of users and stakeholders who can benefit from data sharing and Data Space initiatives, along with the added value they expect from accessing and sharing data. It will also examine their needs and aspirations while identifying the barriers that hinder the delivery of expected value, drawing insights from different domains represented by the participant projects. Additionally, the discussion will focus on how various projects can address these needs and barriers to align with the evolving real-world landscape, ultimately fostering a community of practice that enhances collaboration and innovation.

The workshop will explore the potential of Data Spaces to drive innovation by addressing societal and business challenges, while tackling key obstacles in seamless data sharing. Projects under the HORIZON-CL4-2023-DATA-01-02 topic (CyclOps, DS2, CEDAR, NOUS, and PLIADES) will engage stakeholders from the data and AI innovation community, with a focus on SME participation.

Discussions will examine user profiles, their needs, and the added value of Data Spaces, drawing insights from participating projects. The session will align developments with real-world challenges, fostering a community of practice. Participants will identify barriers and share innovative solutions through interactive methodologies.

The workshop will be structured into three blocks, where panellists will present key findings, followed by live audience engagement through surveys. It will also assess how project solutions align with Data Spaces and the DSSC blueprint.