Why aren’t more charities using AI?

At Purposefully, we work with small and mid-sized charities that are balancing delivering community impact with limited time and resources. Earlier this year, we conducted an exploratory survey with 21 grant writers across British Columbia to understand how nonprofits are using AI in grant writing.

The results showed 33% grant writers are not using AI. 30% stated they were unsure how to use it, while 20% said they weren’t aware grant writing AI tools existed. However, among those who have tried AI, each respondent reported some improvement in workflow or time savings.  

Our survey showed that some grant writers want to explore new tools but don’t have the time, guidance, or confidence to begin. Other respondents expressed caution. Some raised concerns about accuracy, competitiveness, job impacts, and the absence of clear policies on AI use. 

Taken together, these findings suggest that while AI offers real potential, grant writers want reliable tools, practical training, and clear ethical guidelines before they feel ready to rely on it more fully. 

This small survey provides insight how charities are moving forward with AI: with curiosity, caution, and pragmatism. Future research with a larger sample will be important to better understand how organizations are adapting and what kinds of support will help them use these tools responsibly and effectively. 

#NonprofitTech #DigitalDivide #AIForGood #CapacityBuilding #GrantWriting