Data governance provides a means to establish a common vision for early childhood data use in the state, with key policy and program decisions supporting that vision. Further, when data governance is effectively established, the quality and security of data collected, reported, and used by early childhood programs and agencies is enhanced; staff burden is reduced; and communication, collaboration, and relationships across the various agencies and programs and information technology (IT) staff are improved. This document describes the initial, concrete steps necessary to establish data governance for an early childhood integrated data system (ECIDS). It is intended to support states beginning the process of developing their early childhood data governance program. (author abstract)