When using Artificial Intelligence tools in funding applications and creative mahi, there are some important things to consider.
We acknowledge that more people are using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the arts and creative sectors, including for writing grant applications. AI tools can help applicants draft, research, and refine their proposals. AI tools can also make processes more accessible.
This guidance sets out some considerations for applicants using AI in funding applications and creative mahi. These include thinking about possible impacts on intellectual property rights and data privacy, and cultural considerations, particularly in relation to Ngā Toi Māori and Pacific arts.
This guidance does not aim to enforce restrictions around applicants using AI. An applicant’s decision to use AI tools will not disadvantage their application. All applicants are reminded that the terms and conditions of our funding and other support continue to apply.
On this page:
General considerations
We encourage applicants to consider the following when using AI in their application:
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Be transparent: Clearly indicate where AI tools have been used in your application (e.g. for drafting text, generating images, audio or video, or summarising data).
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Lead with your own voice: Ensure that all submitted content reflects your own creative vision, values, and intentions. AI should support, not replace, your voice.
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Be responsible for what you submit: Review all AI-generated content carefully. You are responsible for the factual and ethical integrity of your submission.
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Respect Intellectual Property: Be mindful of whether your AI-generated content replicates or infringes on the work of others. This includes text, images, audio, or video.
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Cultural Integrity: Engage with appropriate cultural advisors and/or community leaders if your project involves content relating to Indigenous, Pacific, or other ethnic communities.
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Data and privacy: Understand how your personal and project data may be stored or used by AI platforms. Avoid inputting sensitive or confidential information into public tools. Stay informed about evolving AI ethics and platform policies.
Cultural considerations
AI tools are not necessarily culturally neutral and cannot replicate lived experiences. They are shaped by global datasets that may not accurately reflect Indigenous knowledge systems, protocols, or values.
When using AI within Ngā toi Māori, Pacific arts, or other ethnic community contexts, applicants should take extra care to uphold cultural integrity.
Further guidance on generative AI use with respect to Māori, Pacific and ethnic communities is published on Digital.govt.nz. This includes considering concerns about the potential for bias resulting from the use of GenAI, and the importance of engagement with Māori and other groups to develop inclusive AI tools and outputs.
Accessibility considerations
We acknowledge that AI can be useful as an assistive technology to help people to access the world in ways not previously possible. This guidance does not aim to restrict the use of AI tools for accessibility purposes.
Future updates
This guidance will evolve as AI technologies and arts sector practices develop. We will continue to engage with artists, cultural advisors, technology experts, and communities to ensure our guidance aligns with sector needs.