AI for charities: How to stay ahead of the curve

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the nonprofit sector, offering ample opportunities for charities to streamline processes, enhance fundraising efforts, and improve decision-making.  

However, with these advancements come important considerations around data privacy, security, and trustworthiness. With new AI tools emerging all the time, charity leaders must ensure they remain cognisant of these concerns, that their understanding of the opportunities and risks of AI are up-to-date amid the constant chopping and changing of tech.  

Below, we delve into how nonprofit leaders can stay ahead of the AI curve to make the most of the technology and mitigate potential risks.

How can charities use AI to improve processes? 

AI can revolutionise the way charities operate, freeing up valuable staff time and resources so organisations can focus on their mission.  

Here are three ways that AI can improve charity processes: 

Automating administrative work 

Many charities struggle with time-consuming administrative tasks, from processing donations to managing volunteer schedules. AI-powered tools can automate these processes – for example, AI-driven accounting software can handle financial reporting by quickly analysing data, finding trends, and using them to build bespoke reports. 

Improving donor engagement 

AI-powered CRM systems can analyse donor behaviour, segment supporters, and personalise communications. Charities can use AI to tailor their fundraising campaigns, sending the right message to the right person at the right time, in turn leading to higher engagement and donation rates. 

Enhancing impact measurement 

Measuring the success of charity services is essential for securing funding and demonstrating impact. AI can analyse data from various sources to track progress, identify trends, and predict outcomes. For example, AI can assess whether certain interventions are working effectively or highlight areas where additional support is needed. 

By integrating AI into daily operations, charities can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the overall impact of their services.

Using AI for funding – how can charities benefit? 

Funding is very important for charities, and AI can help organisations find new opportunities and streamline the application process.  

Here are four of the best ways charities can use AI to enhance their fundraising efforts: 

Grant research 

AI can scan multiple grant opportunities, identifying those that best match your charity’s mission. This saves time and increases the likelihood of securing funding. 

Automated proposal writing 

AI tools can assist in drafting funding applications by suggesting relevant content, structuring proposals, and ensuring compliance with funders’ requirements.  

Predicting donor behaviour 

Analytics through AI can assess donor engagement patterns and predict which supporters are most likely to donate. Charities can use this insight to create more targeted and effective fundraising campaigns. 

Optimising crowdfunding campaigns 

Your charity is able to analyse past fundraising efforts and get recommendation from AI on the best messaging, imagery, and timing for crowdfunding appeals.  

How can charities address privacy, security, and data protection concerns? 

Nonprofit leaders must also consider the ethical implications and potential risks of using AI, especially around data privacy and security. Charities handle sensitive information making it crucial to use AI responsibly. 

Here’s are four ways to stay secure whilst using AI: 

Compliance with data protection regulations 

AI tools must comply with regulations such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). This means ensuring that any AI system used to process personal data is transparent, secure, and aligned with legal requirements. 

Choosing secure AI platforms 

When selecting AI tools, charities should look for providers that offer encryption, access controls, and compliance with industry standards. 

Minimising data input 

Avoid inputting personally identifiable or sensitive information into AI tools. For example, anonymised data can be used for impact measurement without risking privacy breaches.