Using Artificial Intelligence in the Grantmaking Process

This report examines how AI is currently being used across the grantmaking cycle, including problem definition, prioritisation, strategy development, partner identification, grant management and evaluation and learning. It draws on documented case studies identified through desk research conducted between July and December 2025.Across these examples, the evidence shows that most current uses of AI are cautious andincremental. Foundations are primarily using AI to save staff time and improve consistency in information-heavy tasks, such as summarising long reports, comparing large numbers ofapplications, retrieving past decisions, and synthesising findings across portfolios. These uses help staff see patterns and evidence that would otherwise be difficult to assemble, particularly when working across multiple programs or years. At the same time, the case studies highlight the continued importance of human judgment, clear decision criteria, attention to data quality and bias, and deliberate efforts to ensure that AI does not crowd out relational work or overlook less visible actors.Beyond mapping current uses, the report also outlines practical steps foundations can take to begin adopting AI responsibly. It emphasises that effective adoption is as much an organisational change process as a technical one, requiring clear purpose, appropriate governance, attention to data readiness, and sustained investment in staff capacity.