What We Learned About AI, Data and Digital at WMFN’s 2025 Annual Conference

On 20th June 2025, the West Midlands Funders Network welcomed over 100 delegates, to STEAMhouse in Birmingham to explore the role of AI, data and digital tools in the work of funders, charities and public bodies. Here’s a quick round-up of the key takeaways, practical insights and action points for the funders from the day:

AI is already here and is not replacing humans but helping humans to free up time for the things that humans do best. While enthusiasm for AI is high, so is uncertainty, and the need to build digital confidence for those involved in grant making organisations. Ethics must lead the way; excitement about AI must be balanced with realism. The importance of starting from values and not the features of AI is critical to taking a responsible approach. The AI in grant making workshop particularly highlighted the following: support low-risk experimentation with digital tools; offer flexible funding for digital skills and access and promote shared learning through peer networks.

We will be sharing more content from the day shortly including session slides, a post conference resource list and conference report. In the meantime, using an AI tool, here is a very short podcast summarising the key takeaways from the conference.