A growing number of philanthropic organisations are experimenting with artificial intelligence, yet equity remains largely absent from the dominant AI conversation. Findings from the Technology Association of Grantmakers and the UK’s Association of Charitable Foundations show interest in AI across the sector, but only a small fraction have developed policies or integrated the technology organisation-wide. This cautious uptake reflects widespread concerns around bias, exclusion, and data governance—concerns echoed in The Routledge Handbook of Artificial Intelligence and Philanthropy. A new analysis revisits these debates through an equity lens, calling on philanthropy to look beyond productivity gains and address AI’s real-world impacts on marginalised groups. From facial recognition errors to discriminatory algorithms in hiring and education, AI risks reinforcing systemic injustice—unless shaped by inclusive, participatory governance. Emerging global efforts, such as the Indigenous-led Abundant Intelligences initiative and localised AI safety strategies across the Global Majority, offer alternative models. Read more here.
Source: Philea
