Innovating with AI

By Stacy Van Gorp

Let’s be honest—grant applications and reporting can feel like an uphill battle for nonprofits. While many believe AI can simplify the process and make philanthropy more accessible, it’s also wise to consider both its promising benefits and its practical limitations. Here’s a few ideas of ways to reshape the grantmaking process, along with a few points to keep in mind.

1. Efficiency & Automation

For Grant Makers:

• AI-Generated Reports
  AI can compile data into structured reports that simplify compliance. It’s a valuable tool that can save time, though it works best when paired with human review to capture any nuances.

• Predictive Impact Analysis
  By analyzing past reports, AI may offer insights into future funding needs. While these predictions can guide decisions, they should be used alongside expert judgment, especially when data quality varies.

• Deadline & Status Notifications
  Automated reminders and updates can help keep everyone on track. Although technology is reliable, occasional glitches mean that a backup system might still be needed.

For Grant Seekers:

• Automated Eligibility Screening
  AI can quickly assess basic eligibility, helping applicants avoid investing time in inapplicable forms. Still, complex cases may require a more detailed human evaluation.

• Smart Form Autofill
  Reusing stored details from previous applications can reduce repetitive work, though users should always verify that the auto-filled information is current and accurate.

• Automated Compliance Checks
  Scanning for missing details or potential issues before submission can boost efficiency, even if a final human review remains important for catching subtleties.

2. Improved Communication & Support

For Grant Makers:

• 24/7 AI Chat Support
  Instant responses via chatbots can help address common questions around the clock. While these systems offer quick assistance, more complex inquiries may still need human input.

• Multilingual AI Translation
  Machine translation can help bridge language gaps and include non-English-speaking applicants. Though not perfect, it can be a significant step toward a more inclusive process.

• AI-Powered Chat Assistants
  Chatbots can efficiently answer FAQs and guide applicants in real time, providing immediate help. For more intricate or unusual questions, however, direct human support might still be beneficial.

For Grant Seekers:

• Voice-to-Text & Accessibility Features
  These tools can enhance the application process for individuals with disabilities or limited tech skills, making the experience more user-friendly even if occasional corrections are needed.

• Pre-Submission Feedback
  AI can review applications to highlight areas for improvement, helping applicants refine their submissions. Yet, a final look by someone with contextual expertise can still add valuable insight.

• Custom Learning Resources
  Recommendations for training and resources can be personalized based on the grantee’s focus area. The key is ensuring that these suggestions are regularly updated to stay relevant.

4. Pattern detection

For Grant Makers:

• Do your patterns match your strategies?
  AI tools may help identify the patterns in your funding decisions. Helping you to see that you frequently turn down young organizations, even while promoting that you’re looking for new players. 

• Data-Driven Equity Metrics
  Using data to monitor and ensure fair distribution of funds is promising. However, continuous oversight is needed to ensure that the metrics truly reflect diverse needs and contexts.

For Grant Seekers:

• Anonymous Reviews
  By removing identifying details from applications, AI could contribute to a review process. This strategy helps reduce overt bias, even though overall transparency in selection criteria remains essential.

In Conclusion

AI offers a range of tools that can streamline grant processes, boost efficiency, and support a more inclusive approach to philanthropy. While these innovations hold great promise, they work best when complemented by thoughtful human oversight. At SWIM, we are committed to integrating innovative approaches that enhance transparency and trust, recognizing that technology is an important part—but not the whole—of the solution.

In our upcoming blog post we'll explore how philanthropic organizations can proactively build guardrails and systems that ensure AI tools enhance rather than dilute their core values and unique approaches to giving.

Interested in hearing more about our approach? Read more about key trust variables here or schedule a discovery call today!