SmartSimple Cloud +AI: A Refresher on How AI is Transforming Grants Management

Two years ago, we introduced SmartSimple Cloud +AI, marking a significant step forward in how grantmakers leverage artificial intelligence to streamline their workflows. Since then, AI has rapidly evolved and so has our platform. As AI adoption continues to grow, we’re taking a moment to refresh what SmartSimple Cloud +AI offers, the impact it’s made, and what’s next for AI in grants management. 

The Evolution of SmartSimple Cloud +AI

When we first launched SmartSimple Cloud +AI, our goal was to enhance efficiency by automating routine tasks, improving decision-making, and reducing administrative burdens. Over the past two years, we’ve refined and expanded these capabilities based on real-world use cases and feedback from our users. Some key developments include:

• Enhanced Data Processing – Smarter automation tools that help extract and analyze data faster than ever.

• Improved Application Review – AI-powered tools that assist in identifying key insights and flagging missing information, making the review process more efficient.

SmartSimple Cloud +AI supports two key modes of operation to ensure organizations can implement AI in the way that best suits their needs:

• Automation Mode is ideal for high-volume, repetitive tasks that benefit from streamlined AI intervention. This mode allows system-configured elements such as web page views, email templates, and read-only fields to automatically interact with the AI, enabling real-time processing and output.

• Interactive Mode is tailored for individual users working within a specific object, like an application or review. This mode delivers a more personalized experience, enabling users to directly engage with AI tools within the context of their work. It supports deeper insights and on-demand recommendations, enhancing task-level efficiency.

By leveraging both modes in tandem, organizations can create AI-enriched workflows that are flexible, targeted, and aligned with the varying demands of different grantmaking processes.

The illustration below shows the process of using +AI's Interactive mode to access personalized AI recommendations and insights within a specific task, helping to streamline workflows and increase productivity.

AI-Powered Grantmaking Across SmartSimple and Foundant

In August of last year, SmartSimple merged with Foundant Technologies, combining our expertise to create even greater value for grantmakers. Foundant also harnesses AI to enhance grants management, helping organizations optimize processes and improve funding decisions. Together, we’re evolving our AI-driven solutions to ensure grantmakers have the best tools at their fingertips. Whether using SmartSimple Cloud +AI or Foundant’s AI capabilities, our shared mission remains the same: to streamline and strengthen the grantmaking process with cutting-edge technology.

Real-World Impact

AI has made a tangible difference for grantmakers using SmartSimple Cloud. Organizations have reported significant reductions in manual workload, enabling them to focus more on strategic initiatives. A few examples include:

• Accelerated Application Processing – AI-assisted workflows have cut down review times, allowing organizations to distribute funding faster.

• Smarter Decision-Making – AI-generated insights have helped grantmakers allocate resources more effectively.

Addressing Concerns & Ensuring Responsible AI Use

We recognize that AI comes with challenges, particularly around ethics, transparency, and security. That’s why we’ve remained committed to responsible AI use by:

• Prioritizing Security – Clients have full control over what data is shared with AI tools. We use OpenAI, a trusted third-party provider, to power select features, helping deliver powerful results while supporting informed data choices.

• Keeping Humans in the Loop – AI is a tool to support decision-making, not replace it. Human oversight remains a key part of the process.

What’s Next?

As AI continues to evolve, so does SmartSimple Cloud +AI. Looking ahead, we’re exploring new ways to further enhance automation, refine analytics, and introduce even more intuitive tools to assist grantmakers. Stay tuned for exciting developments in the months to come!

Interested in learning more about our latest AI-powered features?
Get in touch with us to explore SmartSimple Cloud +AI today!