The City of Cambridge has earned the Bloomberg Philanthropies What Works Cities Platinum Certification for its use of data to guide policies and improve public services. Announced by Results for America, the Platinum Certification is the highest level of recognition for local governments, making Cambridge one of five cities to achieve this distinction, according on an official announcement.
Cambridge has previously earned Silver in 2020 and Gold in subsequent years through the What Works Cities certification program, tying with South Bend, Indiana, for the most certifications among participating cities. The city’s ongoing efforts in data-driven governance have now resulted in Platinum recognition. City Manager Yi-An Huang said the certification reflects Cambridge’s commitment to using data to inform decisions and improve services for residents.
Cambridge has applied its data-driven approach to programs such as the Cambridge Preschool Program, which provides free preschool to all 4-year-olds and some 3-year-olds in the city. The initiative was developed using research and data on the benefits of universal pre-K education. Since its launch in 2024, the program has served more than 1,450 children, expanding access to early education in Cambridge.
The What Works Cities Certification, launched by Bloomberg Philanthropies in 2017 and managed by Results for America, evaluates a city’s use of data across 43 criteria, with Platinum status requiring an 85% or higher score. The program promotes the use of data in city governance to improve outcomes for residents. Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui said the certification reflects the city’s approach to using data to guide decisions and engage with the public.
Bloomberg Philanthropies, which oversees the What Works Cities initiative, emphasizes how data can be used to address urban challenges, including housing and traffic safety. While Platinum certification recognizes cities like Cambridge for their data practices, the program’s broader goal is to help municipalities across the Americas use data to improve services and responsiveness.
