What's Happening?
A new software platform named Raiser has been launched to assist small charities in the UK in securing funding from trusts and foundations. Developed by Luke Wilkinson, a Buxton-based fundraiser and former small-charity CEO, along with co-founder James Poulter, an AI and innovation expert, Raiser aims to help these organizations write stronger funding bids and demonstrate their impact more effectively. The platform was introduced at an event in Buxton, where local charity leaders were invited to trial the app and participate in a grant-writing surgery. Raiser is designed to be accessible to any small registered charity in the UK with an income under £1 million per year.
Why It's Important?
The launch of Raiser is significant as it addresses the challenges faced by small charities in securing necessary funding. These organizations often lack the resources to compete with larger entities for grants, and Raiser provides them with AI-driven tools to enhance their storytelling and bid-writing capabilities. By simplifying the grant application process and emphasizing real impact stories, Raiser empowers small charities to better communicate their value to potential funders. This could lead to increased financial support for small charities, enabling them to continue their vital work in communities across the UK.
What's Next?
As Raiser becomes available to more small charities, it is expected to influence the way these organizations approach funding applications. The platform's success could encourage more charities to adopt technology-driven solutions for fundraising. Additionally, the use of AI in the charity sector may prompt discussions about the ethical implications and potential risks associated with such technologies. Stakeholders, including funders and charity leaders, may need to consider how to balance technological advancements with the need for transparency and accountability in the grant-making process.
Beyond the Headlines
The introduction of Raiser highlights a broader trend of integrating technology into the nonprofit sector. As charities increasingly rely on digital tools to enhance their operations, there may be a shift in how these organizations are perceived and supported by the public and funders. The platform also raises questions about the role of AI in shaping the future of philanthropy, particularly in terms of how impact is measured and communicated. This development could lead to a reevaluation of traditional grant-making practices and encourage more innovative approaches to supporting social causes.
