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Insights • December 10, 2025

Real-Time APIs: Q&A With Jeff Kunkle, SVP of Engineering

01. How do real-time APIs change the way agencies access commercial data?

Real-time APIs deliver current commercial data on demand, which opens up new possibilities for building responsive, data-driven workflows that weren’t practical before. With APIs you can target the precise data you need from massive repositories. This brings down infrastructure costs, since you’re not managing heavy data operations. The pay-per-use pricing available with APIs means that costs scale naturally with how much value you’re deriving from the data.

02. What makes the API architecture suited for mission use?

Grist Mill’s API infrastructure is designed to match operational tempo, delivering real-time data that can be integrated directly into mission tools, workflows and decision processes.

With each Grist Mill accessible API, customers get:

  • Fully tested and verified endpoints with OpenAPI specifications
  • Token-compatible usage
  • Anonymized access
  • Direct delivery into mission systems through integration partners
  • A single authentication method

03. How do the APIs streamline integration across diverse mission platforms?

APIs create a unified data layer that diverse mission platforms can tap into in real-time, regardless of their technology stack. Whether it’s analytical tools, dashboards, or automated workflows, the same APIs serve them all with real-time data tailored to what each platform needs.

 04. What flexibility do teams have in how they consume data?

The APIs support multiple consumption and licensing models, including metered, subscription, one-time, and token-compatible options.

Teams can scale up or down based on operational tempo, test new datasets with minimal friction, and avoid being locked into static delivery formats.

 05. How does Grist Mill Exchange simplify working with hundreds of commercial data providers?

Grist Mill Exchange gives agencies a single, secure way to access commercial data from more than 350 vetted providers. We use standard terms and one unified acquisition process, which means teams do not need to manage separate workflows for each provider.

GME standardizes API authentication methods and documentation across all our providers, making it simple for customers to access many APIs with minimal coding time. All APIs are thoroughly verified by the GME team before they are published on the Mill, ensuring customers see the highest quality, most accurate API listings. This approach shortens acquisition timelines from months to hours and allows customer teams to focus on applying the data to their mission needs.

06. What types of data are available through the APIs? 

Grist Mill Exchange includes a huge range of datasets covering topics such as global trade, maritime, supply chain, social media, corporate and government operations, satellite imagery, geospatial, and much more. Many of our providers are already offering APIs on the Mill, with more being added each week.

You can explore all available datasets directly through the Mill and select the ones that align with your mission needs.

07. How does Grist Mill Exchange ensure data quality and reliability?

Each API undergoes a rigorous validation process to ensure schemas are consistent and outputs are properly documented.

Grist Mill Exchange conducts ongoing checks across providers to ensure data availability and API stability.

08. How do the APIs support sensitive operational environments?

APIs combined with Grist Mill’s secure proxy technology ensure that commercial data providers have zero visibility into customer identities, interests, or operational patterns. Key protections include:

  • End-user identity is fully anonymized
  • One simple, secure process for accessing many commercial APIs
  • Query patterns not associated with customer identities
  • Data delivered directly into mission systems

Together, these elements create a controlled pathway for commercial data that aligns with federal and defense expectations.

09. How fast can teams start using the APIs once onboarded?

Integrations are fast because the APIs are delivered with complete OpenAPI specifications, thorough documentation, and code examples. Customers build functional prototypes within hours and production integrations in days.

10. Can you provide pricing specifics for the API integrations?

Reach out to us at info@gristmillexchange.com to inquire about getting an account on the Mill, where you can see full data listings, APIs, data samples, schemas, pricing, and more. Our Data Solutions team helps you find exactly the right data for your team’s needs.  

 


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