March 2026 Product Update | Expand Matching Capabilities Through Data Integration

Lauren Ficker

Updated March 19, 2026 22:10

When we first introduced institutional data integration, we provided a better way to identify, filter, and report on specific participant cohorts. Now it's time to take that data one step further. We're excited to announce that institutional records can now be used as a matching input (i.e. "Match by Institutional Data"), creating most accurate, holistic foundation for every pairing.

What is "Match by Institutional Data"?

Matching by Institutional Data allows your program to put those verified records to work — feeding them directly into the matching algorithm either as required shared attribute(s), or attributes appropriately weighed amongst the others. Together, they enable us to:

Draw on data participants may not recall or report accurately
Keep surveys focused on what only participants can tell you
Combine the two into a single, unified match

Strong matches depend on the right foundation. Mentor Collective's matching algorithm will consider information from multiple sources that lead to pairings grounded in fact and shaped by the participant voice.

When Should I Use This?

It begins with considering your matching priorities. What is the purpose of this program? Who are the participants? What should they share in common? Who is the source of truth? What control should participants have?

Let's walk through an example. You run a Career Mentorship Program for an online institution that pairs current students with alumni. Your priorities are:

First-Generation Status

You want all first-generation students matched with first-generation mentors. While you could ask this on the matching survey, many students aren’t sure how first-generation status is defined and may answer incorrectly. Using institutional data ensures this information is accurate.

Major / College

You aim to match participants by major, but you know that’s not always possible. When an exact major match isn’t available, your program can fall back to matching by College. You feel confident about students and alumni reporting their major correctly, but not their College. Using institutional data ensures this information is accurate.

Life Experiences

You still place high value on pairs sharing personal details and preferences. Shared life experiences can help pairs better understand each other and, potentially, where mentees may need additional support. Your matching survey ensures this information is captured.

The result? A complete, richer data foundation—and more meaningful matches.

How Do I Get Started?

It's simple! Gather the data you would like imported and share it with our Support Team. Be sure to let your CSM know which fields you'd like considered while matching.