3 Steps to Using AI
Looking for ideas to make your grant writing more efficient with AI? When used strategically, AI can dramatically reduce the time it takes to draft and submit grant proposals, help teams manage multiple applications simultaneously, and maximize human resources. AI cannot replace human insight, specificity, and relationship-building; however, it can be an asset in your grant writing process.
Step One: Start Small
Instead of pasting an entire application into an AI tool, start with individual questions or sections. Work through an application one prompt at a time, staying focused and specific. This approach gives you more control over the output and strengthens your results.
Step Two: Craft Thoughtful Prompts
Once you have identified the questions, it is time to develop your prompts for your AI tool. Think of prompts as instructions - the more context you provide, the closer the output will be to what you need. When relevant, direct AI to build on a previous response.
Step Three: Review, repeat
AI works best when you treat it like a draft creator, not a final author. Run prompts through your AI tool and review the results carefully. If something feels off, direct AI to match the desired tone and writing style you want. Testing and iterating allow you to make necessary adjustments before getting too far along in your application.
Human Talent Matters Most
After AI helps generate a draft, strategic review is essential. Pay close attention to adjectives and transition phrases. AI tends to overuse jargon and inflated language. Rather than describing your organization as offering “innovative programming,” clearly explain what you do, who you serve, and the impact you make. Funders connect with real stories and specific, measurable outcomes with long-term effects.
AI can be a game-changer for nonprofits of all sizes by creating more efficient processes and reducing administrative burden on staff, but it is not a replacement for human connection. It can help you accomplish your grant writing goals, but you are the one who moves the application from “eligible” to “competitive.”
