AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming the way people create content, but when it comes to writing grant applications, is it really the best solution? While ChatGPT can generate text, it lacks the specific capabilities needed to produce successful, fundable bids. In contrast, Fundin is built from the ground up to support grant writing, ensuring every step of the process is handled with precision, security, and expertise.
ChatGPT – A General AI With Limitations
ChatGPT is a powerful tool for general writing, but grant applications require more than just well-structured sentences. There are several fundamental limitations when using ChatGPT for bid writing.
- No Grant-Specific Knowledge – ChatGPT is trained on a broad dataset and does not specialise in grant writing. It does not understand funder requirements, scoring criteria, or how to tailor applications for different grant opportunities.
- No Grant Matching – ChatGPT does not have built-in grant search capabilities, meaning users must manually find opportunities, research them, and then prompt ChatGPT to generate text.
- No Review Process – There is no expert review to ensure applications are polished, structured correctly, or aligned with funder expectations. Users must manually check for errors and inconsistencies.
- No Workflow Integration – A full grant application involves multiple steps beyond writing. ChatGPT generates text but does not assist with research, compliance, or submission, leaving users with additional work.
- Inconsistent Quality – The output from ChatGPT varies depending on how prompts are structured. Without experience in grant writing, users can struggle to get high-quality responses.
- Higher Risk of Errors – ChatGPT can generate inaccurate or irrelevant information. Mistakes in an application can lead to immediate disqualification from funding opportunities.
Is AI Good Enough to Write Bids?
The short answer is no. While AI can assist with drafting content, it is not capable of producing a winning bid on its own. A successful grant application requires strategy, understanding of funder priorities, and a human touch to refine and tailor responses effectively.
At Fundin, we combine AI with human expertise. Our AI system writes 60% of the bid, generating structured, relevant content quickly. However, the remaining 40% is where our expert team steps in – refining the application, adding necessary details, ensuring compliance, and tailoring the bid to maximise success.
Even with ChatGPT, creating a truly compelling bid still requires significant manual input. Users must structure prompts correctly, verify the accuracy of the AI’s responses, edit the content to align with funder expectations, and ensure compliance with submission requirements. This means that while AI can speed up parts of the process, it cannot replace expert human oversight.
Data Privacy and Security Risks with ChatGPT
Many organisations handle sensitive information in their grant applications, including financial details, strategic plans, and confidential data. Uploading this information into ChatGPT can present serious privacy risks.
- No Guarantee of Data Security – ChatGPT does not provide assurances on how data is stored or processed. Sensitive details entered into the platform could be logged and used in future AI training.
- No Control Over Data Usage – Once information is inputted into ChatGPT, users have no control over how it is stored or used. There is no transparency on whether details are retained or accessed by third parties.
- Risk of Data Exposure – Grant applications often contain confidential business strategies and budgets. Using ChatGPT means relying on a system that does not prioritise data protection, which could put organisations at risk.
Why Fundin is the Safer and Smarter Choice
Fundin is designed specifically for grant writing, ensuring that every aspect of the process is optimised for success while maintaining full security and compliance.
- Built for Grant Writing – Unlike ChatGPT, Fundin is developed exclusively to support bid writing, using AI to generate accurate, tailored applications aligned with funder expectations.
- Smart Grant Matching – Fundin’s AI-powered system finds the best grant opportunities, eliminating the need for users to manually search for funding sources.
- Expert Review on Every Bid – Every grant application submitted through Fundin is reviewed by experienced bid writers to ensure quality, structure, and compliance.
- Full Workflow Support – Fundin streamlines the entire grant writing process, from discovery to submission, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
- Guaranteed Data Privacy – Fundin never trains its AI models on user inputs. Sensitive information remains secure and is never shared, stored externally, or used for AI training.
- Consistent, High-Quality Output – Fundin ensures that applications meet funder requirements every time, without the unpredictability of AI-generated responses.
Choosing the Right Tool for Funding Success
While ChatGPT is a useful AI tool for general writing, it is not designed for grant applications. The lack of industry knowledge, workflow integration, and data security makes it a risky choice for organisations serious about securing funding.
Fundin provides a purpose-built solution that combines AI efficiency with human expertise, ensuring high-quality, compliant, and secure grant applications. With dedicated bid writing support, organisations can focus on their mission while Fundin handles the complexities of funding applications.
For a reliable, efficient, and secure grant writing solution, Fundin is the clear winner.
