This article delves into the critical role of data teams in supporting AI and security initiatives within organisations. It highlights the challenges that arise from underfunding these teams, emphasising the importance of data quality, governance, and management. The piece explores the imbalance in budget allocation, potential risks, and inefficiencies caused by insufficient funding. Through case studies and recommendations, the article underscores the need for balanced budget allocation to enhance data quality, improve AI effectiveness, and strengthen security measures, ultimately advocating for greater investment in data teams.