Summer AI Series Ep.2

AI and Grantmaking: Ask the Expert (Q&A)

Register now: SGM Member Meeting - AI and Grantmaking: Ask the Expert (Q&A) – Fill out form

This interactive session will explore how AI is reshaping governance for grantmaking organisations, with a focus on practical opportunities, proportionate risk management, and real‑world application. Through expert‑led discussion and open Q&A, we’ll remove the ambiguity and examine where AI can genuinely add value. The session is designed to be highly participatory, and attendees are encouraged to come prepped with all their AI questions and challenges to make the most of the discussion.

The session will be led by Zoe Amar, a leading expert on AI, digital transformation, and governance in the charity sector. Zoe works closely with charities and funders across the UK, advising on how to lead digital change with confidence, increasing impact, skills and sustainability through her agency and as co‑chair of the Charity AI Taskforce. With 16 years’ experience as a charity trustee and deep involvement in sector‑wide frameworks and policy, Zoe brings a strong governance lens to helping grantmakers use AI effectively and responsibly.

Agenda:

• Introduction (5 minutes)

• Pre-planned questions (25 minutes)

• Open questions (30 minutes)

Pre-planned questions:

• How is AI changing charity and foundation governance?

• What examples have you seen of smaller organisations maximising impact through AI?

• What AI tools currently exist that could support funders? For example, an AI agent that engages with fundraisers pre-application to assess fit and save time on both sides.

• What should organisations expect to do with the time AI saves them?

• What should a sensible, proportionate AI policy include for grantmaking organisations?

• Do you have any specific advice or watch-outs for grantmakers adopting AI?

• How would you recommend approaching this in practice - building bespoke AI tools vs buying and licensing existing solutions?