AI and Accessibility in Grantmaking
Make funding more inclusive for small or minority‑led charities with accessible design and proportionate processes.
By Plinth Team
Accessibility means everyone can apply and report fairly; AI and good design reduce barriers.
- Plain‑English forms with assistive‑tech support.
- Flexible formats (text, audio, video) where appropriate.
- Proportionate reporting to respect capacity.
Designing inclusive processes
Plan for diverse applicants from the start.
- Mobile‑friendly forms and save‑and‑return.
- Examples and translations where helpful.
- Assisted submission options.
Key takeaway: design choices shape who applies.
Using AI to help
AI can support accessibility when used thoughtfully.
- Summaries and translation for reviewers and applicants.
- Draft feedback that is clear and respectful.
- Voice‑to‑text options for updates.
Key takeaway: Plinth embeds helpful, optional AI tools.
Measuring inclusion
Track who applies and succeeds while respecting privacy.
- Monitor reach by geography and organisation size.
- Gather voluntary EDI data proportionately.
- Adjust outreach and guidance based on findings.
Key takeaway: inclusion is iterative and measurable.
FAQs
Will AI exclude some applicants?
Used well, it reduces barriers; always offer non‑AI paths.
Do we need specialist audits?
They help, but many improvements are common‑sense design.
Can we accept video answers?
Yes—provide guidance and keep criteria consistent.