Kent Community Foundation Offers Guidance on Using AI in Grant Applications

Kent Community Foundation Offers Guidance on Using AI in Grant Applications

As digital and AI tools become more readily available, Kent Community Foundation is offering guidance to organisations on how to responsibly and ethically use these technologies when applying for grants. While acknowledging the potential time-saving benefits of AI, the Foundation emphasises that its core assessment criteria remain unchanged.

"We really want to understand the need you're addressing and how this funding will help you meet it," says Natalie Smith, Interim Chief Executive at Kent Community Foundation. "While technology, including AI tools, can be helpful for things like prompting ideas and speeding up editing, it's important to remember that using AI is a choice. Ultimately, what matters most to us is getting a real sense of your organisation and what you're trying to achieve, rather than perfect spelling and grammar."

Kent Community Foundation stresses that perfect spelling and grammar are not the primary focus. Clarity of communication and a clear understanding of the applicant's goals are paramount. The Foundation remains neutral on AI usage but will be monitoring its use in applications (via a tick box on the application form) to gather data and inform future approaches. Currently, all applications are reviewed individually by humans, and AI is not used in the assessment process. Applicants will be notified if this policy changes.

The Foundation recommends a three-step approach:

1. Consider: Applicants should carefully consider all necessary information for a robust application before using AI. Confidential or sensitive data, including personal details, should never be entered into AI platforms. Applicants should also be mindful of the environmental impact of AI, which consumes significantly more water and energy than traditional search engines.
2. Review: AI-generated content should be thoroughly reviewed for accuracy. AI can produce inaccurate information or generate generic responses that lack detail or fail to authentically represent the organisation.
3. Refine: Drafted content should be amended to include all required information and reflect the organisation's unique voice. AI can sometimes mask an organisation's personality!

"Ultimately, the decision to use AI is yours," Natalie concludes. "While it can be a helpful tool, it's important to use it wisely and ethically, and take into account its greater impact on the environment."

For more information read our Use of AI in Grant Applications statement.

For funding requests, visit our funding page to complete our eligibility checker.