The State Data Center (SDC) Program is one of the Census Bureau's longest and most successful partnerships. This partnership between the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the island areas and the Census Bureau was created in 1978 to make data available locally to the public through a network of state agencies, universities, libraries, and regional and local governments.

The SDC lead organization is appointed by the governor of each state/commonwealth, Puerto Rico, island area (American Samoa, Guam, The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Virgin Islands) or the mayor of the District of Columbia.

Since the creation, the State Data Center network, has provided access and education on Census Bureau data and products as well as other statistical resources to millions of data users.

Empower data users with understandable, accurate and timely information through the mutually beneficial partnership between the State Data Centers and the Census Bureau.

As the U.S. Census Bureau's premier local partner, deliver accurate and timely information; prepare and provide training and assistance; assist the bureau in achieving its mission; and foster two-way communications with the bureau on data usability, data user needs and operational issues.