The National Evaluation Platform in Mali (NEP-Mali) aims to strengthen nutrition policy and programs through data-informed decision making. It is governed by a steering committee and technical working group that work to validate questions from decision-makers, analyze relevant data, and produce reports to guide policies. An example question addressed was how many lives could be saved through full implementation of Mali's health strategies. Key findings were presented and recommendations were made to improve plans, though translating results into changes requires overcoming various challenges. Lessons indicate technical support is important and a multi-institutional collaborative model shows promise for supporting evidence-based decision making.