> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://data-and-pass.gitbook.io/whitepaper/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://data-and-pass.gitbook.io/whitepaper/introduction.md).

# Introduction

Data marketplaces are platforms that allow people to securely share and sell their data assets. These platforms aim to create a decentralized data economy using blockchain technology.

<figure><img src="/files/Jdyn6G5CRzR3Ia5XYoBy" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## **What is a Data Marketplace?**

Data marketplaces are online platforms where various types of data can be bought and sold. This data can include the following:

**Personal data:** Information such as names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses.&#x20;

**Business data:** Information such as sales figures, customer information and marketing data.&#x20;

**IoT data:** Data collected from smart devices and sensors.&#x20;

**Research data:** Data from academic research.

Data marketplaces are offered as a way to provide data to people who need it and as a way for data owners to monetize their data.