The Rise of AI in Grant Writing - is it Friend or Foe?

by Lisa Erhart

Apr 08, 2025

AI is everywhere—and yes, that includes grant writing. Founders are using tools like ChatGPT to speed up the process, refine language, and reduce overwhelm.

But here’s the truth no one talks about: AI can either sharpen your application or sink it.

After 5 years of reviewing funding applications, I’ve seen the same pitfalls over and over again:

❌ Generic content that doesn’t reflect the organisation’s voice
❌ Misaligned metrics and weak evidence of impact
❌ Reliance on AI to write, instead of enhance

If you use AI without the right foundations - project clarity, measurable impact, and strategic storytelling - you’re not saving time; you’re wasting it.

Let me show you what I mean:

❌ Harmful Response:

“This project will revolutionise the funeral industry by improving experiences for all attendees. We expect 100% adoption of the digital alternative within the first year.”

Sounds inspiring, right? But assessors see red flags:

🚩 No real metrics
🚩 Unrealistic adoption claims
🚩 No evidence or baseline

✅ Improved Response:

Adoption – increase number of digital memorials by 20% each month
User engagement – maintain 5-star rating for the tool
Revenue – generate $50,000 in FY25
Accessibility – expand to user engagement to 5 new regional locations

See the difference? AI can help refine a response like this - but only after you’ve done the work.

That’s why I created the Using AI in Grant Writing guide. It doesn’t just give you a list of tools. It breaks down how to:

✔️ Use AI to structure your thinking, not substitute it
✔️ Spot the red flags in AI-generated content
✔️ Balance tech with authenticity so assessors trust your application

📥 Download the guide now and learn how to write smarter, not just faster.

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