The use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in grant proposal preparation has introduced efficiency and automation into the writing process. However, it also presents significant risks, including inaccuracy, plagiarism, ethical concerns, and the inability to capture the nuanced requirements of funding agencies. We wanted to take a minute, and in light of Executive Order 14179, from January 23, 2025, we thought it would be appropriate to chime in on this topic.
This post outlines these risks and details why E.B. Howard Consulting (EBHC) strictly limits the use of generative AI in the preparation of grant proposals, instead ensuring that all submissions meet the highest standards of accuracy, compliance, and strategic alignment with funding priorities.
Grant proposal writing is a specialized process that requires a deep understanding of funder expectations, strategic alignment with funding priorities, and precise adherence to proposal guidelines. While generative AI tools have emerged as a possible aid in automating portions of this process, their limitations and risks outweigh their potential benefits in this high-stakes domain.
Here are just a few of the risks
- Inaccuracy and Fabrication: Generative AI is known to generate inaccurate or fabricated information, commonly referred to as “hallucinations.” In the context of grant proposals, incorrect data, misrepresented funding priorities, or fabricated references can lead to immediate rejection or damage to an organization’s credibility.
- Plagiarism and Intellectual Property Violations: AI-generated text is often drawn from existing sources without proper attribution. Submitting content that inadvertently contains plagiarized material can violate funding agency guidelines and result in penalties or blacklisting from future funding opportunities.
- Failure to Meet Funder-Specific Guidelines: Grant proposals require strict adherence to funder-specific guidelines, including formatting, character limits, and content expectations. AI-generated content does not inherently understand these nuanced requirements, increasing the likelihood of submission errors.
- Lack of Strategic Insight and Customization: Successful grant proposals go beyond basic compliance to present a compelling narrative aligned with the funder’s mission and priorities. AI tools lack the ability to develop a customized strategy that resonates with reviewers and decision-makers.
- Ethical and Confidentiality Concerns: Using AI for proposal development may involve feeding sensitive organizational data into third-party platforms. This poses risks related to data privacy, proprietary information security, and compliance with federal grant regulations.
EBHC is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality, ethics, and compliance in grant proposal preparation. Our team of experts conducts in-depth research to ensure proposals align with funder priorities. We craft each proposal with strategic intent, ensuring it meets the unique needs of the funding opportunity. We uphold ethical grant-writing practices in accordance with the Grant Professionals Association (GPA) Code of Ethics.
The risks associated with generative AI in grant proposal preparation far outweigh its potential efficiencies. EBHC remains dedicated to providing expert, human-driven grant writing services that maximize funding success while ensuring ethical compliance. Organizations seeking to secure funding through well-prepared, strategically sound proposals can trust EBHC to deliver results without the risks associated with AI-generated content.
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