The AI Exchange
Towards a funding system where AI is used for good.
AI is rapidly changing funding. As a sector, we need to shape what comes next.
The AI Exchange is a unique partnership between IVAR and CAST, set up to help charities and foundations engage with AI in ways that are responsible, equitable and rooted in trust.
We believe that as AI plays a bigger part in funding – from applications to decision-making – the voluntary sector needs stronger shared practice, better learning, and a louder voice.
We do this through:
- Supporting charities to explore how AI can be used effectively as part of their missions and in their relationships with funders
- Supporting funders to critically engage with how AI can be used in grant-making processes and how it can align with Open and Trusting approaches
- Understanding the implications of widespread AI adoption within the sector and across society for grant-making
Fantastic to bring funders and grantees together – excellent to hear both perspectives and so many innovative idea.”
– Funder participant
Always very thought provoking and an incredibly great use of time.”
– Charity participant
Get Involved
Blogs
AI and the future of funding applications: Risks, realities and responses for grant-makers
As AI becomes part of how charities write funding applications, and how funders assess them, new questions around authenticity, equity and volume are emerging for the whole sector. We explore the risks, the opportunities, and what funders can do now.
From automation to empathy: AI in Open and Trusting grant-making
Open and Trusting grant-making is built on empathy and human connection. This piece explores how AI, used thoughtfully, can reduce admin and free up space for exactly that — with reflective questions to guide funders along the way.
The partnership
The AI Exchange is a collaboration between IVAR and CAST. CAST are experts in digital for social impact – helping voluntary sector make the fullest use of digital and AI technologies, so they can be as responsive and resilient as possible.
Contact
We invite charities and funders to join the conversation, even if you’re unsure about where you stand with AI. In fact, if you’re hesitant about AI we’d love to hear your reflections as we’re keen to capture the full spectrum of experiences of AI.
You can get in touch via enquiries@ivar.org.uk and / or hello@wearecast.org.uk.
IVAR’s AI Principles
Like the voluntary sector organisations we’re working with, IVAR is also experimenting with and setting parameters around its own adoption of AI.
We hope to model good practice in the use of AI and openly share what we learn along the way.