Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer something only tech companies talk about. It’s becoming part of everyday work across many sectors, including the nonprofit world.
From helping organizations write grant proposals and analyze data to improving disaster response and education programs, AI is changing how NGOs work. But as these tools become more common, one important question remains.
How can AI be used responsibly?
To help answer that question, the United Nations (UN) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have launched the AI for Good Global Commission. Announced in early July 2026, the commission brings together government leaders, technology experts, researchers, businesses, and civil society organizations to help shape the future of responsible AI.
What Is the AI for Good Global Commission?
The commission is an international effort focused on making sure AI is developed and used in ways that benefit people and reduce potential risks. As AI evolves, so do concerns about misinformation, privacy, cybersecurity, bias, and transparency. The commission will foster discussions on how countries and organizations can use AI safely, ethically, and responsibly. It will also look at how AI can help advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including improved healthcare, quality education, climate action and poverty reduction.
Why Should NGOs Care?
You may think this is only an issue for governments or big tech companies, and that’s no longer the case. Many NGOs are already using AI in their daily work.For instance, AI can help organizations to:
- Funding opportunities for research
- Prepare draft grant proposals and reports
- Arrange project information
- Translate documents into other languages
- Analyze large volumes of data
- Develop communications and awareness materials
Using AI Responsibly Is Just as Important
While AI offers many benefits, it should always be used with care. NGOs often work with sensitive information about beneficiaries, donors, and communities. That means protecting data, checking the accuracy of AI-generated content, and ensuring that important decisions are still made by people, not machines.
AI should support your work, not replace human knowledge, experience, or judgment. Responsible AI is about finding the right balance between innovation and accountability.
A Growing Focus on Ethical AI
The launch of the AI for Good Global Commission shows that responsible AI is becoming a global priority. Around the world, governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations are working together to understand how AI can improve lives while minimizing risks. For NGOs, this is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and build confidence in using AI tools in ways that are ethical, transparent, and aligned with their mission.
Final Thoughts
AI is changing the way nonprofits work—and it’s moving fast. The new AI for Good Global Commission by the United Nations is a timely reminder that technology should always be used to benefit people and communities. The AI isn’t simply because the future isn’t simply simply because it’s new. It’s about using it wisely to save time, improve decision-making, strengthen programs, and have a greater impact, all while keeping people at the center of every decision. As AI continues to change the nonprofit landscape, organizations that understand both the opportunities and responsibilities will be better positioned for the future
