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AidData
Introduction
AidData is an international development research lab at William & Mary that uses rigorous, evidence-based research and advanced analytical tools to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. Its economists, political and data scientists, and policy experts help decision-makers design and evaluate policies that improve lives in countries worldwide. With strengths in artificial intelligence, survey research and tracking underreported financial flows — and expertise in climate change, agriculture, migration and foreign policy — AidData’s insights and data are in high demand among governments, international organizations and the media.
A Conversation with CNN and W&M's AidData
On November 18, AidData released a groundbreaking report revealing China’s true global lending footprint — $2.2 trillion across 200 countries, including the U.S., U.K. and other high-income nations for the first time. Hear three W&M alumni, CNN senior national correspondent David Culver ’09, AidData's executive director Brad Parks ’03 and AidData researcher Sailor Miao ’24, unpack the findings — and why they matter worldwide.
Leading International Development Research
Through conducting some of the most important and comprehensive international studies of their kind, AidData's work solidifies William & Mary as a leading global research university. Since its founding in 2004, AidData has:
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2000+
Students working with AidData conduct meaningful research around the world.
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$ 85+ million
Funding sources include the World Bank, USAID, the Gates Foundation and others.
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2100+
Publications include the BBC, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and more.
Learn more about AidData’s work.
From Idea to Global Impact
As an undergraduate studying economics and Chinese language at William & Mary, Austin Strange ’12 pursued an independent study project focused on where and how China is spending its international development dollars. The result was the development of an open-source methodology that has now captured international spending in 200 countries and territories.
AidData has provided testimony and evidence to high-impact organizations like the United Nations, U.S. Senate and the World Bank more than 326 times.
W&M Students Engage in International Research
“It is truly extraordinary that, as college students and recent graduates, we have an opportunity to influence those who make and shape policy on one of the most important issues of our time.”
— Rory Fedorochko ’22, history and international relations double major from Springfield, VA
Global Media Mentions
William & Mary continues to make headlines across the globe in over 400 mentions in elite media outlets and more than 1,370 peer-reviewed publications for its groundbreaking research.
Associated Press
US has warned others to avoid loans from Chinese state banks. But it’s the biggest recipient of all
BBC
China's investment spree in UK gave it access to military-grade technology, BBC told
The Economist (Paywall)
China’s financial tentacles run deeper through America than previously thought
Reuters
US is biggest recipient of Chinese loans, study shows
Support the Future of AidData
Private support can help us expand field research and data collection in underserved regions, explore the use of satellites, AI, machine learning and big data to improve development outcomes and train the next generation of international development scholars.
With your gift today, we can continue to inform global policy solutions and maintain W&M’s role as a leading research institution that is advancing knowledge to shape our future.
Contact Information
AidData
Social Media
Location
Swem Library The Hive, Ground Floor 400 Landrum Drive Williamsburg, VA 23185
Map & DirectionsContact Us
- General Inquiries: info@aiddata.org
- Media & Partnership Inquiries: awooley@aiddata.org
- Giving Inquiries: [[awgodfrey]]
- Additional Experts & Staff: People Directory
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