# Business Model

A well-considered business model is key to sustaining a data space, even when profit isn’t the primary objective. While iSHARE does not prescribe a specific business model, we encourage each data space initiative to explore how value can be created, sustained, and fairly distributed among all participants.

The DSSC Blueprint 2.0 describes that many data spaces aim to fund strategic initiatives, such as improving interoperability, launching collaborative tools, or offering participant support services, rather than chasing revenue. They suggest that a solid business model makes this possible by providing structure to financial flows, value exchange, and collective benefits.

The core value of a data space lies in reducing fragmentation and lowering the costs of connecting systems and organisations. By aligning on shared standards and agreements, data spaces make data sharing more accessible, repeatable, and secure, which in turn supports innovation. Participants retain full control over their data, while benefiting from simplified and trusted reuse across diverse use cases.

Unlike traditional businesses, a data space relies on multiple independent actors working together toward shared goals. This means the business model must support collaborative governance and avoid centralisation of power. The goal is not just sustainability, but mutual benefit, across both data providers and users, as well as service providers.

Developing such a model requires thoughtful coordination and should be made in conjunction with decisions about governance, participation, and value creation. Each building block of your data space is interconnected, and designing with that in mind will help the business model become a foundation for long-term success.

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The complete DSSC description is available[ here](https://dssc.eu/space/BVE2/1071252828/Business+Model).
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The guiding questions can help in the co-creation process and in defining this building block, so please see the next section.&#x20;
