Data Lexicon

To ensure that the data economy serves the common good and fully utilises its value creation potential, there are various political efforts aiming to shape the data economy. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) explains the key terms that are being discussed in the data economy.

What exactly do data institutes or data labs do? What distinguishes data trustees from data intermediaries? How can data marketplaces and data spaces be delineated? Here, we explain some of the most important terms.

Relevant in topic:: Innovation
Key areas:: Digitalisierung

Released 05.06.2026

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Menschen besprechen etwas am Tablet

Data Institute

The Data Institute, as a public institution, aims to advance data availability and thereby improve intelligent data use for startups and the digital economy. Read more here.

Luftbild von City mit stilisierten Datenflüssen

Data Intermediary

Data trustees are data intermediaries: Neutral data brokers aim to facilitate data exchange while adhering to applicable protection mechanisms. Learn more here.

Eine Hand tropft aus einer Pipette auf eine Petrischale

Datenlabore

The establishment of data laboratories is part of the Federal Government's digital strategy. Evident data is to be processed there in order to develop tailor-made measures. For more information, click here.

Weltkarte aus Schaltkreisen

Data Marketplace

Supply and demand: Data marketplaces offer platforms where data can be sold or purchased. They enhance the availability and visibility of data. Learn more here.

Datenräume

Data Spaces

Those working with sensitive data need a trustworthy infrastructure. Data spaces are protected environments enabling the exchange of documents and secure work. Find out more here.

Eine Hand hält ein virtuelles Schloss

Data Trustees

Data trustees act as neutral intermediaries between the party providing the data and the one utilising it. They ensure technical access to data while safeguarding data protection. Read more here.