Wellcome Invests in System's Vision for Interconnected Knowledge
System, a Public Benefit Corporation, has recently been awarded a significant $6.5 million program-related investment from the Wellcome Trust. This funding marks an important milestone, being one of the first investments in public interest technology by Wellcome, aimed to bolster the development of the System Graph.
What is the System Graph?
The System Graph is an innovative model that seeks to connect the world's scientific knowledge as a unified whole. With data often confined within narrow disciplinary boundaries, System is committed to breaking these silos to provide researchers, policymakers, and citizens with a comprehensive view of interconnected global challenges, like climate change and public health.
Significance of the Investment
Wellcome's investment will empower System to launch and maintain the System Graph, ensuring it is freely accessible for non-commercial use. This critical accessibility is designed to support a wide array of stakeholders, from academics and journalists to public health officials, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions based on comprehensive, evidence-based data.
Advancing Open Source Tools
In addition to the open access initiative, System will develop open-source tools aimed at creating dynamic, evidence-based systems maps across various topics represented in the System Graph. This initiative will have a strong emphasis on public health and biomedical research, shaping how these domains are approached and understood.
Annual Conference on Systems Thinking
Furthermore, part of this investment will fund an annual conference dedicated to systems-based solutions for the world’s most pressing problems. This event will act as a platform for collaboration and innovation among leaders in various fields, fostering the exchange of ideas and strategies.
Commitment to Public Benefit
System's foundation as a Public Benefit Corporation is reinforced through its agreement with Wellcome. This partnership not only maintains the integrity of its mission but also protects it against significant changes without prior approval from Wellcome. Over the next five years, System is dedicated to uphold its PBC status, further emphasizing its commitment to public interest.
Open Data Initiatives
In aligning with its goals, System prioritizes open data and transparency. The organization commits to releasing snapshots of the System Graph into the public domain, beginning in 2026. This initiative will further facilitate knowledge sharing and improve systems literacy in society.
About System
System is transforming decision-making by connecting disparate knowledge into coherent systems, particularly in the healthcare sector. Its applications are already in use by leading healthcare providers across the globe, using the System Graph—an extensive statistical model that integrates vast evidence sources updated continuously.
About Wellcome
Wellcome is dedicated to supporting scientific research addressing urgent global health challenges, focusing on mental health, infectious diseases, and the intersection of climate and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the System Graph?
The System Graph aims to integrate diverse scientific knowledge into a singular framework that enhances understanding and decision-making in various fields.
Who has invested in System?
The Wellcome Trust has invested $6.5 million into System to support its mission and initiatives, marking a milestone in public interest technology funding.
How will the investment be used?
The funds will facilitate accessible data sharing, development of open tools, and hosting an annual conference to promote systems-based solutions.
What does a Public Benefit Corporation mean for System?
As a Public Benefit Corporation, System commits to prioritizing public interest in its operations, ensuring that any changes to its mission align with its foundational goals.
When will System start releasing data?
System plans to begin releasing snapshots of the System Graph for public use in 2026, contributing to greater knowledge transparency.
