Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Accelerate Charitable Giving

The Philanthropic Partnerships Team (PPT) at the Gates Foundation has issued a Grand Challenges Request for Proposals titled "AI to Accelerate Charitable Giving." This call aims to examine how artificial intelligence can improve philanthropic methods and create fresh avenues for generosity, with a focus on enabling donors to contribute more generously and act sooner. The PPT works to gather resources and nurture advocates for global health and development (GH&D), concentrating on bettering health, economic prospects, and human welfare in low- and middle-income nations.

Each project may receive funding of up to ₹1.4 crore, with a grant period not exceeding one year. Proposed budgets must match the scope and intricacy of the work, and indirect costs can be included within the total requested amount. The Gates Foundation will separately cover travel expenses for in-person gatherings with fellow grantees, so project budgets can allocate funds toward other travel needs.

The funding supports the creation of donor-facing applications and the foundational systems of giving that trial novel AI uses. Expected outcomes include producing actionable evidence and examples that guide wider philanthropic practice, with a particular emphasis on solutions that bolster support for GH&D. Proposals may tackle areas such as linking donors to causes, converting interest into contributions, and constructing core infrastructure for AI-enabled giving.

In addition to financial backing, the programme provides chances for project teams to join virtual or in-person learning sessions. These meetings enable peer grantees to connect, exchange knowledge, and work together, building a shared community focused on AI in philanthropy. The Foundation stresses careful attention to ethical concerns in AI design, testing, and rollout, consistent with principles of mission alignment, community-driven solutions, risk management, data accountability, broad advantage, and openness.

Proposals are assessed for their fit with the challenge areas and the Foundation's AI principles. Reviewers examine the anticipated impact, the practicality of testing AI tools in real-world settings, and the approach to gauging success within the grant period. The likelihood of the project being maintained, expanded, or disseminated after the grant ends is also taken into account. During the review, the Foundation might ask for further details or clarification.

Proposals are assessed for their fit with the stated challenge areas and AI principles. Reviewers look at the anticipated impact, how practical it is to test the AI tools, and the approach to tracking outcomes. The likelihood of the project continuing, expanding, or being shared is also weighed. If needed, the panel may ask for further details.