REI Systems Survey Reveals Funding Uncertainty and AI Adoption as Key Grants Management Challenges

Event summary

  • REI Systems' 2026 Annual Grants Management Survey gathered input from 773 grants professionals, the highest participation in its 10-year history.
  • Funding uncertainty emerged as the top challenge, cited by over 70% of respondents.
  • 70% of federal respondents reported no measurable improvement in grant program outcomes over the past year.
  • 60% of respondents identified the pre-award phase as the most promising area for AI application in grants management.

The big picture

The survey highlights a grants ecosystem under pressure from funding volatility and workforce constraints, while AI emerges as a potential game-changer. As government and nonprofit organizations struggle with outcome measurement, the shift towards digital and data-driven grants management could reshape the sector. REI Systems, with its focus on technology solutions, is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, but success will depend on balancing automation with human oversight.

What we're watching

Funding Volatility
How funding uncertainty will impact grant program sustainability and service delivery.
AI Integration
The pace at which AI adoption will streamline grants management processes and reduce administrative burdens.
Outcome Measurement
Whether organizations can overcome barriers to measuring grant program outcomes and improve accountability.