There is a lot of chatter in the grant-writing world about using AI to complete grant proposals. Grant professionals are debating the ethics, quality, etc.
But have you considered that AI is evaluating our grant proposals?
In much the same way that grant writers try to simplify and streamline the grant-writing process, many grant evaluators rely on AI to screen applications.
Platforms like SmartSimple offer solutions to help grantmakers manage the large volume of incoming applications. The technology allows funders to set parameters within the AI platform that will pre-screen a grant application.
The platform generates a grade for each grant application and a summary explanation of the grade. This allows funders to triage grant proposals, bringing applications that meet the parameters to the top of the list.
What does this mean for grant writers?
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Simply stated, it means that adhering to the application directions is more important than ever.
Ten years ago, I would use every opportunity and word count to tell stories and pull on the heartstrings of the grant committee. Sometimes, that meant providing way more information than was requested in an attempt to connect with the reader on an emotional level.
Now, providing additional information outside of the scope of the question can disqualify your application.
Today, when I write grants, I assume that AI will screen my application first.
Here are some parameters that could cause your grant application to “AI Pre-Screen Fail”:
- Leaving questions blank
- Not directly answering the question
- Numerous typos, grammatical errors, and misspellings
- Missed deadline (even by one second)
- Request is not aligned with funding priorities
- Grant guidelines not met (number of years as a non-profit, annual budget, etc)
In the past, grant givers were able to be more subjective and make exceptions for small mistakes if they liked your program. AI pre-screening removes subjectivity. Making one of these mistakes can mean that your grant application may never make it to an actual human.
As with any change, we adjust. And, in this case, we must follow grant application directions much more closely.
Until next time,
Write Epic Grants
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