“If we go back to that definition of AI – that it’s all about learning from data – then that can present some challenges. AI is only as good as the data it learns from. Bad AI and Bad Robots in the movies likely all came from bad data along the way. This is why the quality and appropriateness of the data used is so important." ~ Steve MacLaughlin, Blackbaud Institute

Helpful Resources

Resources on the topic of AI and charities are limited but they exist.

Should you be ingterested in exploring this further, here is a list of some helpful articles, reports and presentations. Some of them were used in preparing this website.

• AI4Giving: Unlocking Generosity with Artificial Intelligence: the Future of Giving, by Beth Kanter and Allison Fine.

This is likely the most comprehensive report on the topic of AI and Charities to date. It defines AI, talks about the current state of AI for giving, assesses challenges and provides recommendations for the road ahead.

• The Complete Guide to Artificial Intelligence for Nonprofits by Keela.

This is a great high level overview of the topic written in an easy to understand language. Just like the previous resource, it looks at defining AI, reviews why nonprofits should embrace AI, provides examples of how AI can help nonprofits to achieve their missions.

• Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Generosity, TEDx by Nathan Chappell.

Nathan was one of the first to speak about applying AI for the benefit of charities. He publishd a number of papers and developed AI tools that through Machine Learning help charities to inspire generosity. He uses the term Precision Philanthropy which means using AI technology to match passion to purpose making giving easier than ever before.

• Machine Made Goods: charities, philanthropy & artificial intelligence, by CAF (Charities Aid Foundation).

This report discusses the implications of AI for the society and the work of charities. One of the key recommendations of this report is that civil society will have to play key role in discussing and addressing some of the potential challenges and negative consequences of AI by being involved in the debate about AI in a meaningful way, and civil society impact should be a part of any strategy for the use of AI.

• Using AI in Fundraising, UKFundraising

AI Lab for Charities will continue to adding valuable resources to this list as they are publlished. The goal is to have a comprehensive library of resources for charities on the topic of AI and charities.

Make sure to check our Tools and PD and Conferences sections. This is where the information will be updated on a regular basis to capture any new tools and resources for charities in connection with AI-powered technology.