The Year We Got Intentional About AI

How Bigfoot is Using AI to Work Smarter (Not Replace Humans)

2025 was the year AI moved from curiosity to capability at Bigfoot.

Like many in our sector, we started by exploring what was possible. We tested platforms, compared outputs, and asked a simple question: How can AI make us better at what we already do best?

After assessing tools like ChatGPT and others, we ultimately landed on Google’s Gemini as our primary platform, not because it was ‘better’, but because it best aligned with how our team works and collaborates.

But overall, our goal remains the same. 

From Experimentation to Application

Rather than rushing adoption, we took a structured approach.

We partnered with an AI specialist - Mark from AI kobey, who works closely with agencies to unlock practical, real-world use cases. Through a series of workshops across 2025, we:

• Built a shared understanding of AI capabilities across the team

• Identified where AI could genuinely add value (not just save time)

• Developed internal user guides tailored to our workflows

This wasn’t about shortcuts, it was about building confidence and consistency in how we use AI.

Human-Led, AI-Enhanced

At Bigfoot, AI doesn't replace thinking, it supports it. 

We’ve found the most value in areas like:

• Brainstorming and ideation — accelerating early-stage thinking

• Creative refinement — sharpening messaging and propositions

• Data analysis — extracting insights from reports and campaign performance

• Operational efficiencies — from meeting notes to internal documentation

But the strategy, the storytelling, and the decisions? That remains firmly human-led.

Because in fundraising, nuance matters. Emotion matters. Context matters.

Customisation is Everything

One of the biggest learnings has been that generic AI delivers generic results. To avoid this, we’ve built customised “Gems” tailored to specific clients, campaign types, and use cases. This allows us to:

• Maintain brand voice and tone

• Align outputs with campaign strategy

• Ensure relevance across different audiences and objectives

AI only becomes powerful when it’s trained to think in your world.

Still Early, But Moving Fast

We’re the first to say it… we’re still early in this journey.

But even at this stage, the impact is clear.

Simple use cases like automated meeting notes are now embedded in our day-to-day. More advanced applications (particularly in creative development and data analysis) are evolving quickly.

What This Means for Our Clients in 2026

As we move into 2026, our focus is on scaling what works.

That means:

• Building more automated processes to improve speed and efficiency

• Enhancing campaign insight through smarter data analysis

• Creating stronger, faster creative development cycles

• Continuing to test where AI can unlock new fundraising opportunities

All while staying grounded in what matters most - human insight, strategic thinking, and meaningful storytelling. Our opportunity here isn’t to replace work, it’s to elevate it. 

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