About Us

The Data Exchange Framework is a collaborative effort led by a dedicated working group composed of partners including UNHCR, HIAS, Skillab, Talent Beyond Boundaries, and many other organizations. Our shared mission is to develop and promote a standard data schema for collecting and managing data related to skills-based complementary pathways.

This standardized schema is designed to support the global effort of connecting displaced communities and refugees to meaningful employment and skilled immigration opportunities. By creating a common framework, we aim to streamline data exchange, reduce fragmentation, and improve the efficiency of data sharing across different stakeholders—ultimately enabling better outcomes for displaced individuals.

Our Vision

We envision a future where the Data Exchange Framework becomes a cornerstone for organizations involved in skills-based complementary pathways. This framework will serve as a key technical resource for precisely identifying critical fields and data required to support skilled immigration, enabling organizations to engage confidently in this space without the burden of building custom solutions from scratch.

How It All Started

The working group was established in early 2024 in response to challenges identified during a series of discovery interviews with partners in the Latin America and Caribbean regions. We found that many organizations used different systems and standards for recording candidate data, which led to inefficiencies and integration difficulties. To address these challenges, we proposed the creation of a shared technical framework that all stakeholders could adopt, simplifying data exchange and creating a more cohesive system.

Our Goals

  • Standardize data collection and sharing for skilled immigration pathways.
  • Promote collaboration and interoperability between organizations working with displaced communities.
  • Ensure the privacy and security of sensitive data through robust protocols and best practices.
  • Foster innovation by creating a flexible, adaptable framework that can evolve with the needs of the community.

Working Group Members

The success of this framework is due to the collective contributions of our working group members, who bring expertise from diverse fields including technology, humanitarian aid, immigration law, and employment services. We are proud to collaborate with partners such as:

  • UNHCR
  • HIAS
  • Skillab
  • Talent Beyond Boundaries
  • TalentLift Canada
  • And many other dedicated organizations and individuals.

Join Us

If your organization is interested in contributing to the ongoing development of the Data Exchange Framework, or if you have feedback to share, we welcome your involvement. Together, we can build a more integrated and supportive global system for displaced individuals seeking a better future.

Contact Us to learn more about how you can get involved.