Add Row
Add Element
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • FEATURED
    • IMPACT
    • VOICES
    • ACTION
    • RESOURCES
    • EVENTS
    • PARTNERS
    • LEADERSHIP
    • EMPOWERMENT
    • RESILIENCE
    • IGA
    • RIPPLE CROWD
    • GRANTS PLUS
    • COMMUNITY
    • CROWDFUNDING
    • SPECIAL EVENTS
    • LEGACY
    • CHARLOTTE WORKS
January 20.2026
3 Minutes Read

Why Every Nonprofit Should Consider Using AI in Grantseeking Today

Hands typing on a laptop, representing AI in grantseeking for nonprofits.

Embracing AI in Nonprofit Grantseeking: A Game Changer

As nonprofits increasingly navigate the competitive landscape of securing funding, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in grantseeking could mark a pivotal shift in how organizations write proposals, conduct research, and connect with funders. With insights from Phil Ferrante-Roseberry at TechSoup, we delve into the intricate benefits and considerations of utilizing AI in this critical area.

Understanding the Landscape: Why AI is Now

The integration of AI into grant writing is no longer just a future consideration—it's happening now. According to a study by Instrumentl, around 90% of nonprofits have embraced AI for various operational tasks, including grant writing. As Phil points out, well-chosen AI tools can provide vital support without replacing the nuanced human touch necessary for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with funders.

The Right AI Tools: What to Look for

Amidst a plethora of AI solutions, nonprofits must discern which technologies align with their specific needs. For instance, tools such as Microsoft 365 Copilot allow users to draw from internal data, creating a secure and tailored grant writing experience. The platform's ability to summarize emails, pull internal documents, and reference past proposals helps streamline the research process and fosters a more informed approach to grant applications.

The AI Workflow: From Research to Proposal Development

AI's potential is most evident in its capacity to assist with both research and proposal crafting. As Ferrante-Roseberry illustrates, nonprofits can leverage tools like Copilot to ask insightful questions about potential funders and receive concise summaries that aid in the decision-making process. This improves efficiency and encourages a strategic alignment between the nonprofit’s mission and the funder's priorities.

Research Effectively with AI: Valuable Insights

When utilizing AI for grant research, consider prompting it with queries like, "Tell me about this funder's activities over the last 3-5 years," which helps gather relevant information about compatibility with your own goals. Using generative AI in this way allows grantwriters to access extensive knowledge bases quickly, enhancing the overall quality of the proposals being submitted.

Common Myths: Addressing Concerns with AI in Grant Seeking

Despite the evident advantages, misconceptions about AI persist. For example, some nonprofit leaders fear that using AI might diminish the quality of their proposals or lead to robotic narratives. While it is essential to supervise and review AI-generated content, it can be a valuable partner in overcoming writer's block and enhancing narrative clarity.

Implementing AI Tools: A Thoughtful Approach for Nonprofits

Phil advocates a cautious and thoughtful application of AI in grant writing, reinforced by a mindset akin to environmental stewardship—using these tools when they provide undeniable value. Nonprofits are reminded that AI tools should not replace human creativity and strategy; rather, they exist to complement these essential elements, enabling professionals to focus more on relationship-building and storytelling.

Looking Forward: The Future of AI in Grant Writing

The landscape of grant writing is set to evolve, with AI increasingly becoming an integral part of nonprofit operations. As organizations explore AI capabilities available through platforms like Instrumentl and Grant Assistant, the emphasis on data privacy, tool effectiveness, and user comfort becomes paramount. In a world where grant funding is becoming scarcer, embracing the right AI technologies could be the key to unlocking potential funding opportunities.

Call to Action: Take Your Grantseeking to the Next Level

As nonprofits explore the evolving trends in grant written grant seeking, harnessing the power of AI can provide streamlined workflows and enhance proposal quality. Consider exploring available AI tools that fit your organization’s needs to stay competitive in the changing funding landscape.

PARTNERS

4 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
02.14.2026

Unlocking New Features of QuickBooks Online for Nonprofits in 2026

Update Empowering Nonprofits: What's New in QuickBooks Online for 2026 As we step into 2026, nonprofits face new challenges and opportunities, particularly in managing their finances amidst evolving regulations and increasing donor expectations. Fortunately, QuickBooks Online remains an invaluable ally for these organizations, ensuring they stay organized and transparent. This year brings exciting updates and features tailored to enhance the financial management capabilities of nonprofits. QuickBooks Online Plus: A Strong Foundation The flagship product for many nonprofits, QuickBooks Online Plus, continues to be a robust solution, giving organizations the essential tools for managing their finances effectively. Not only does it allow users to create customized charts of accounts aligned with IRS Form 990, but it also provides various reports detailing contributions and expenditures by donor or grant. In an environment where transparency is paramount, the ability to draft budget plans using real-time fundraising and expense data becomes crucial. QuickBooks Online Plus enhances strategic decision-making by simplifying the comparison between actual income and budgeted amounts. With the ability to organize critical data about tax, donors, and vendors, this version is aptly designed for small to medium-sized organizations. For eligible nonprofits, a one-year QuickBooks Online Plus subscription is available for only an $80 admin fee through TechSoup, making it an accessible option. Advanced Features for Growing Organizations For nonprofits requiring more sophisticated features, QuickBooks Online Advanced is the perfect solution. Incorporating all capabilities of QuickBooks Online Plus, it introduces advanced custom reporting tools, flexible user permissions, and limitless access to online training resources—a perfect combination for organizations ready to scale up. With 25 user slots included, it facilitates collaborative work among staff members without compromising data integrity. Organizations eligible can obtain the QuickBooks Online Advanced subscription for a $170 admin fee. This enables nonprofits to harness greater insights from their financial data and sustainably grow their operations. New AI-Powered Features: The Future of Financial Management In an age where technology profoundly impacts operations, Intuit is at the forefront with its AI-powered features, including the innovative Intuit Assist. These tools not only enhance bookkeeping accuracy but also provide smart suggestions to monitor cash flow effectively. Nonprofits can now leverage AI in preparing financial reports, a time-saving improvement that allows teams to focus more on mission-driven activities rather than paperwork. The integration of AI into financial management signifies a trend towards smarter operational practices, positioning nonprofits to engage with their funding communities efficiently and effectively. Tailored Support from TechSoup TechSoup remains committed to enhancing QuickBooks experiences for nonprofits through various exclusive support services. Whether you need help migrating data to a new QuickBooks Online account or navigating the myriad of functionalities within the system, TechSoup is here to help. Their QuickBooks Data Migration service ensures a seamless transition, maintaining organizational continuity. Additionally, the QuickBooks Help Desk provides long-term support options, assisting organizations as their financial needs grow and evolve. QuickBooks Integration Support enables seamless collaboration between QuickBooks and popular donor management tools, such as Bloomerang and Little Green Light. These services not only aim to facilitate smooth operations but also contribute to the overall efficiency and efficacy of nonprofit management. Harnessing Training & Resources for Maximum Impact TechSoup pairs its products with extensive training resources to empower users fully. Their training programs cater specifically to the nonprofit sector, offering QuickBooks Online Made Easy for Nonprofits and webinars that ensure organizations extract maximum value from their QuickBooks subscriptions. The importance of efficient training cannot be overstated; it equips nonprofit staff with the skills necessary to navigate finances confidently. By investing in training and utilizing available resources, nonprofits can enhance financial strategies, potentially leading to more significant fundraising outcomes and better financial health. Conclusion: Get Ready for a Successful Year! The changes in QuickBooks Online for 2026 demonstrate a commitment to addressing the unique needs of nonprofits. With solutions like QuickBooks Online Plus and Advanced, coupled with robo-advisors and comprehensive support from TechSoup, organizations can take charge of their financial future. As Form 990 season approaches, now is the perfect time to assess how these new tools can enhance reporting and accountability. As you explore these new options, consider reaching out to TechSoup to get a subscription or enhance your current QuickBooks experience. Investing in these tools today could yield vital benefits as nonprofits strive to fulfill their missions more effectively than ever.
02.13.2026

Unlocking the Power of Location Intelligence for Nonprofits

Update Harnessing Location Intelligence to Empower Nonprofits In an era where social, environmental, and economic challenges are increasingly complex, nonprofits are positioned at the nexus of societal needs and impactful solutions. To navigate these issues effectively, organizations are turning to innovative tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This technology not only quantifies data but also visualizes it, allowing nonprofits to understand their community better and respond in meaningful ways. The Power of GIS Technology GIS technology integrates various data layers—such as demographics, service gaps, and environmental conditions—onto geographic maps, revealing patterns and relationships often overlooked in traditional reports. Esri, a trailblazer in GIS since 1969, has made this tool accessible for nonprofits. By visualizing their data, organizations can uncover insights that inform their mission strategies and outreach efforts. For instance, recording monarch butterfly populations in Chicago with GIS helps conservation efforts by pinpointing areas in need of attention. This application exemplifies how location intelligence can drive effective action. Data-Driven Narratives That Inspire Action Nonprofits leverage GIS not just for operational efficiency but also as a storytelling medium to inspire action. In San Diego, a GIS project aimed at reducing food waste grew into a larger initiative, mapping food scarcity alongside other community indicators. The outcome was a more informed community approach to food insecurity, showcasing how the stories told through data visualizations resonate with stakeholders and mobilize efforts for change. Enhanced Precision in Decision-Making Another significant advantage of utilizing GIS technology is the precision it brings to operational tasks. For instance, Mohonk Preserve in New York adopted Esri's ArcGIS tools to enhance workflow efficiencies, replacing cumbersome manual tracking with real-time data collection. As a result, staff now document conditions and track invasive species in mere minutes, leading to better resource allocation and operational effectiveness. This precision extends to demonstrating impact; organizations like the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina utilize GIS to visualize food access and service gaps, allowing them to make informed decisions that promote equity in service delivery. Forecasting Community Needs with GeoAI Advancements in technology have also seen the integration of artificial intelligence within GIS—known as GeoAI. This combines spatial analysis with AI to expedite decision-making processes. Post-disaster scenarios, such as assessing hurricane damage, are now addressed more swiftly; crews can determine the best routes for service using AI-generated maps. As nonprofits deploy these solutions, they're empowered to anticipate and respond to community needs proactively, whether it's predicting food shortages or mapping health disparities as a result of climate change. Breaking Down Barriers to GIS Adoption Despite the potential benefits, a significant barrier remains: access to GIS tools. Fortunately, programs like the Esri Nonprofit Program offer substantial discounts to nonprofits, enabling them to harness these powerful solutions at a fraction of the cost—between 80% to 99%. Yet, providing access is merely the first step. Organizations must also cultivate data literacy and cross-departmental collaborations to achieve the desired impact through GIS. Long-Term Collaborations for Greater Impact Partnerships play a critical role in successfully implementing GIS initiatives. Organizations such as Bay Park Data Solutions demonstrate this through their collaborations with nonprofits to leverage GIS for measurable community change. Through shared stories and data visualizations, they illustrate how thoughtful application of technology can enhance social good across various sectors, including education, conservation, and peacebuilding. Why GIS Matters for Nonprofits As the global landscape continues to evolve with new challenges, harnessing GIS technology isn't just an operational upgrade; it is essential for nonprofits committed to social good. These tools provide a distinctive framework that empowers organizations to act responsibly, transparently, and effectively, ensuring they meet their missions while addressing community needs. The integration of GIS tools opens the door to new possibilities in how nonprofits operate, from enhancing data-driven decision-making to telling compelling stories that engage communities and stakeholders alike. To learn how your nonprofit can harness the power of GIS and truly make a difference, consider exploring the resources available through the Esri Nonprofit Program. Creating a vibrant, data-driven mission can transform your efforts and build a stronger future for the community you serve.
02.06.2026

Why Cyber Resilience for Financial Inclusion is Essential for Nonprofits

Update Building Cyber Resilience: A Necessity for NonprofitsIn today's increasingly digital world, financial inclusion is crucial for underserved populations. Digital financial services, such as mobile wallets and online banking, enable access to necessary financial products. However, nonprofits providing such services must recognize that with great capabilities come significant vulnerabilities. The furor surrounding cyber incidents is a pressing concern, especially given the recent findings from the CyberPeace Institute's report on Cyber Resilience for Financial Inclusion.Why Cyber Security Matters for NonprofitsThe report highlights that security vulnerabilities are widespread among organizations in the financial sector. Alarmingly, 67% of nonprofits surveyed reported at least one vulnerability in their security systems, posing risks that could lead to cyber incidents impacting their operations and the communities they serve. The necessity for cybersecurity isn't merely a precaution; it’s a fundamental aspect of a nonprofit's operational integrity.Common Vulnerabilities to AddressCommon issues identified include insecure configurations, misconfigured email security, and outdated Transport Layer Security (TLS) certificates. These flaws contribute to a heightened likelihood of cyberattacks. Without addressing these vulnerabilities, nonprofits could experience dire consequences, jeopardizing the very populations relying on their services. Furthermore, leaked credentials and malware infections have become prevalent threats, amplifying the urgency for enhanced digital safety measures.Empowering Your Organization Against Cyber ThreatsTo combat these vulnerabilities, nonprofits can adopt multiple strategies. Improving overall security hygiene is essential. This could involve better management of software patches, bolstering email security standards, and closing unused ports in their networks. Organizations can benefit from tailored staff training sessions focused on cybersecurity literacy, helping them recognize potential threats like phishing.Implementing Practical Security PracticesThe report suggests several practical actions to increase cyber resilience. Nonprofits should consider implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), performing regular password audits, and creating robust password policies. Additionally, encouraging the use of password managers and backing up data regularly—and securely—can be invaluable tools in this battle against cybercrime. Moreover, offline encrypted backups can safeguard against data loss and ransomware threats.Understanding the Underreporting of Cyber IncidentsOne of the more alarming insights from the CyberPeace Institute's report is the underreporting of cyber incidents. Many organizations might choose not to disclose attacks, leading to a potentially skewed understanding of the cybersecurity landscape. This lack of transparency obscures the true scale of threats faced by nonprofits, which is detrimental not only to individual organizations but also to the collaborative effort required to foster collective security in the sector.Creating a Culture of Cyber AwarenessAs nonprofits continue to empower communities through financial inclusion, fostering a culture of cyber awareness becomes essential. Each employee should be equipped with the knowledge to identify and respond to potential threats. Regular training sessions, updates on emerging threats, and sharing successes can create an informed workforce, ready to tackle cyber challenges head-on.Moving Forward with ConfidenceAs the financial inclusion landscape evolves, so too must the cybersecurity strategies employed by nonprofits. By prioritizing cyber resilience, organizations can not only safeguard their operations but also enhance their ability to effectively serve vulnerable communities. As we have seen, practical, proactive measures can create a secure digital environment where both organizations and their beneficiaries can thrive.In light of these findings, it is imperative for nonprofits dedicated to financial inclusion to develop robust cybersecurity strategies for the safety of both their organizations and the communities they serve.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*