Drafter & the ethical use of AI
Core position
Drafter helps grantees clearly and confidently communicate their impact to funders.
We provide AI to generate structured, compelling first drafts from materials grant applicants already have. Our goal is to level the playing field so that all organisations, including those without dedicated grant-writing staff, can effectively present their work and secure funding.
Data is handled securely in Australia.
Unlike many other generative AI tools, all data entered into Drafter is stored and processed in Australia, and never used to train AI models.
Ethical commitments
Support, not substitution
Drafter helps applicants express what they already know. We generate drafts, not final submissions. Applicants remain the authors.
Grounded in existing materials
Drafts are created directly from applicants’ existing materials. We don’t invent facts or outcomes.
Improving equitable access to funding
Larger organisations often leverage grant-writing consultants. Our tool makes similar support accessible and affordable for smaller or lower-resourced groups.
Transparent and opt-in
We strive to be transparent about the AI features we provide, where data is processed and how it is used. Using Drafter to assist in the grant-writing process is optional.
Risks we recognise
Over-reliance on generated content
Applicants might accept, and submit, applications produced by Drafter despite subtle inaccuracies.
Blurred boundaries between fact and interpretation
Drafter synthesises information from multiple sources, potentially mixing facts or timelines without clear attribution. This may lead applicants to unknowingly accept unverified claims.
Pressure toward funder-centric framing
Drafter’s persuasive tone may push applicants toward language and buzzwords tailored to funder expectations, prioritising appealing but potentially inauthentic descriptions of their work.
Reducing organisational learning and capacity-building
Providing ready-made language can discourage applicants from developing their own grant-writing and communication skills, limiting growth and strategic reflection.
Unanticipated negative outcomes
As with any initiative, there could be negative consequences that are difficult to predict. Our tool(s) will be improved and refined based on feedback and evolving best practice.
Please see the Our Community Privacy Policy and Frequently Asked Questions for more information.