We Digitise.
We Transform.
We Inspire.
As a global initiative, we are accelerating the digital transformation of archives and historical records. Bringing together archives, cultural heritage institutions, technology providers, researchers, businesses, and civil society organisations, DTI creates a collaborative framework for preserving the past while unlocking new possibilities for the future.
Founded on the belief that the greatest challenge today is not a lack of technology but a lack of coordination and resources, DTI supports international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and innovation across the archival and cultural heritage sectors.
Why DTI Matters
Vast parts of the world’s documentary heritage remain undigitised and at risk. At the same time, technologies such as artificial intelligence, handwriting recognition, semantic linking, and big data are rapidly transforming the way historical records can be explored and understood.
DTI supports the responsible adoption of these technologies while promoting sustainability, accessibility, and professional expertise. The initiative seeks to turn passive archives into active engines of discovery and inspiration.
A Collaborative Initiative
DTI is not a new centralised organisation, but a complementary and collaborative ecosystem coordinated by ICARUS together with an international network of partners and founding members.
By connecting institutions, technologies, and people across borders and sectors, DTI helps strengthen existing initiatives, create new opportunities, and accelerate the digital transformation of archives worldwide.
The global organisation of archives and archivists, promoting preservation, access, and international collaboration.
Europe’s digital platform for cultural heritage, providing open access to millions of historical documents and artworks.
An international archival consortium fostering cooperation, innovation, and shared expertise in the digital era.
A European cooperative advancing AI-powered handwriting recognition and transcription for historical documents.
Advancing the digital transformation of cultural heritage through AI, data, and large-scale collaboration.
Connecting people with their family history through genealogical research, digital access to historical records, and expertise in archival heritage.
An international community fostering collaboration and innovation in the application of AI across libraries, archives, and museums.
Advancing global access to family history through the preservation, digitisation, and sharing of historical records and archives.
From Vision to Action
DTI supports:
conferences, workshops, and international gatherings
digitisation and infrastructure funding opportunities
knowledge sharing and professional exchange
innovation in archival technologies and AI
development of accessible digital heritage ecosystems
Guided by the DTI Declaration, the initiative represents a shared commitment to cooperation, innovation, and the future of cultural heritage in the digital age.
Step closer
Read our DTI Declaration here