Lately there’s been a lot of buzz about ChatGPT and how it can be leveraged to support nonprofit fundraising. It’s no surprise that AI can be an incredibly powerful resource, especially when it comes to grant writing.
That said, the key to using any new tool is understanding how to operate it responsibly. As Spider Man taught us, “with great power, comes great responsibility!"
Before you rely completely on ChatGPT to write your winning grant proposal, here are a few important things you should consider:
Factual Accuracy
Always remember that Chat GPT is a writing tool, not a subject matter expert. While sometimes it can seem like there's an educated human on the other side of the screen, it's important to understand that no AI can replace your real-world experience and university degree, not yet anyway.
ChatGPT generates text based on patterns in data, but it doesn’t have real-time access to current data. So, make sure to double-check any facts, statistics, or data it provides. For critical information such as recent research findings, statistics, or compliance requirements – ask ChatGPT to cite its sources, then double check them with a trustworthy authority.
Contextual Accuracy
Chat GPT might be able to review grant guidelines, spell-check your application, and even write some of your grant narrative. Yet, we must remember that there’s no wizard behind the curtain pulling the strings. Chat GPT can and often will misinterpret the intricacies of your project and the nuances of specific grants.
Make sure to review and adapt your content to ensure it accurately reflects the requirements and context of the grant you’re applying for. AI-generated content can be used as a starting point or a great way to brainstorm ideas, but be sure to consult with subject matter experts and do your own research to ensure accuracy.
Creativity & Originality
What AI brings in speed and precision, it greatly lacks in authenticity and originality. There’s one important thing we have that it just doesn’t – and that thing is creativity. Creativity is ChatGPT’s Achilles’ heel.
While ChatGPT can help generate ideas and outlines, relying on it for original ideas or creative thinking will result in a proposal that lacks the human touch. Your proposal should reflect your unique voice, approach, and understanding of the project. Only your personal voice can showcase your passion and commitment in a way that ChatGPT just can’t capture. For this reason, always revise and review AI-generated drafts and put them into your own words.
Dos and Don’ts
Keep these important dos and don’t in mind the next time you’re using ChatGPT for your grant proposal:
Do:
Use ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas and help structure your proposal. It’s a great way to find new ideas and get the ball rolling.
Double-check all facts and figures. Ask ChatGPT to cite its sources, then double check each data point with a reliable authority to ensure its accuracy.
Edit and review all ChatGPT content to ensure it aligns with the specific requirements of the grant and accurately reflects your project’s scope.
Add your unique voice and creativity to bring warmth, authenticity, and the human touch to your proposal.
Don’t:
Rely on ChatGPT to replace your expertise. Always remember that ChatGPT is a writing tool, not a subject matter expert. It can’t replace your years of experience or university degree.
Expect ChatGPT to fully grasp the specific context or unique needs of your organization or project. That’s where you come in!
Copy and paste directly from ChatGPT—make sure to review, revise and add your unique perspective and voice.
Let ChatGPT handle creative aspects of your proposal. Your proposal needs your passionate perspective and human connection – that’s what will make your proposal truly stand out.
Need help integrating AI into your grant writing process?
If you have questions or need further guidance to integrate AI into your grant writing process, don’t hesitate to reach out.
I offer group and individual training sessions designed to help non-profit employees create a successful grant program. I'll teach you how to: conduct grant research, answer common grant questions, and how to manage the grant writing process from start to finish.