The independent Global Stocktake (iGST) is a data and advocacy initiative that brings together climate modelers, analysts, campaigners and advocates and aims to increase the accuracy, transparency, accountability, and relevance of the GST through a combination of research, analysis, and dialogue. A central question for the iGST is how the independent, nongovernmental community can best assist in meeting the goals of the GST, whether operating through the official GST process and/or operating outside of that process. This discussion paper focuses on information availability and needs for the iGST in support of the mitigation mission of the GST and the Paris Agreement more generally.