Securing funding is one of the biggest challenges for non-profits in New Zealand. Whether you're applying for grants, sponsorships, or community funding, crafting a compelling application takes time, research, and a clear, persuasive case.
The good news? AI can help.
From structuring your application to refining your language and even analysing past funding trends, AI tools can make the process faster, smarter, and more effective. Here's how to use AI to boost your chances of success when applying for funding in NZ.
How AI Helps With Key Parts of a Funding Application
1. Understanding the Funder’s Priorities
Before you start writing, you need to know what the funder is looking for. AI can summarise funding criteria, highlight key themes, and even suggest how to align your proposal with the funder’s values.
AI Tools:
ChatGPT or Claude AI – Summarises funder guidelines and key focus areas.
Google Bard – Can analyse public funder reports to identify trends.
AI Prompt Example: "Summarise the key funding priorities of [Funder Name] based on these guidelines. What should be the main focus of my application?"
2. Crafting a Clear & Compelling Case
Writing persuasively is key to securing funding. AI can help draft mission statements, impact summaries, and need assessments, making sure your application is clear, concise, and compelling.
AI Tools:
ChatGPT or Jasper AI – Helps draft funding applications with a strong narrative.
Grammarly or Hemingway Editor – Ensures clarity, readability, and professional tone.
AI Prompt Example: "Write a compelling 200-word impact statement for a funding application focused on [cause]. Make it persuasive and engaging."
3. Backing Up Your Case with Data
Most funders expect data-driven applications. AI can analyse past funding trends, find relevant statistics, and even create clear reports to strengthen your application.
AI Tools:
Google Sheets AI / ChatGPT – Analyses past funding trends and financial reports.
Canva (Free version) – Creates simple, effective funding proposal visuals.
AI Prompt Example: "Generate a summary of funding success rates for similar NZ non-profits in the last five years. Highlight key trends."
4. Tailoring Your Application for Different Funders
One of the most time-consuming parts of grant writing is adapting applications for different funders. AI can quickly rewrite content to match specific criteria without starting from scratch.
AI Tools:
ChatGPT / Claude AI – Can rephrase content to match different funder guidelines.
Notion AI – Helps organise multiple funding applications in one place.
AI Prompt Example: "Rewrite this funding application to align with [Funder Name]’s priorities. Keep the main points but adjust the language and focus."
5. Checking for Compliance & Final Proofreading
NZ funders have strict guidelines, and missing key details can result in an unsuccessful application. AI tools can help ensure applications meet all requirements before submission.
AI Tools:
ChatGPT or Claude AI – Cross-checks applications against funder guidelines.
Grammarly or Hemingway Editor – Ensures clarity, professionalism, and readability.
Trello or Notion AI – Helps create checklists to track funding criteria.
AI Prompt Example: "Review this funding application against [Funder Name]’s guidelines. Identify any missing sections or areas that need improvement."
Best Free AI Tools for NZ Community Groups
Not every organisation has the budget for paid AI tools—but that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of AI to improve your funding applications! Here are some great free options to start with:
ChatGPT (Free version) – Great for brainstorming, summarising, and structuring applications.
Grammarly (Free version) – Helps with basic grammar and spelling checks.
Hemingway Editor – A free online tool that ensures readability and clarity.
Canva (Free version) – Useful for designing visuals or reports to support applications.
Google Sheets (Free) – AI-powered data organisation and analysis.
These tools offer solid functionality at no cost, with the option to upgrade if needed.
Final Thoughts: AI Won’t Replace Human Insight, But It Can Help
AI is a powerful tool, but it works best when combined with human insight and storytelling. Your organisation’s mission, values, and community impact should always be at the heart of your application, AI just helps refine and enhance your message.
By using AI smartly, NZ non-profits can save time, strengthen their applications, and boost their chances of securing funding. Give it a go, and see how AI can make the grant-writing process smoother and more effective.
At Leafcutter Business Support, we’ve helped over 30 community organisations across New Zealand secure more than $2.5 million in funding. Whether you need expert guidance, AI-powered strategies, or hands-on grant writing support, we’re here to help your non-profit thrive.
📩 Let’s talk funding! Learn more about our grant writing services:
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