Depends on the program. The funder sets the rule in each program's guidelines, so check the program a PI is applying to.
What applicants may do
- Entrants may use AI for idea generation, literature review, feedback on writing, or edits for grammar and English-language flow, if the acknowledgment statement notes these uses. [1]
What the funder asks of applicants
- Every submission must include an AI acknowledgment. Entrants who did not use AI must state that no AI assistance was used and that all content was generated independently by the author. [1]
- If AI is used for any part of the policy brief, cite or acknowledge it fully and properly, following the MLA guide on citation versus acknowledgment. [1]
- Include a citation if AI generated images or figures, or if you quote or paraphrase AI-generated content. Follow the Arizona State University guidelines for the acknowledgment. [1]
If an applicant breaks the rule
- Using an AI tool without proper attribution violates the competition rules and may result in dismissal from the competition. [1]
Rules for reviewers
Agricultural and Applied Economics Association has published no rules for reviewers.
Where this comes from
The funder's own words, from its own pages.
GSS & C-FARE 2026 Policy Communications Competition (opens in a new tab)
If you use AI for any part of the policy brief, you will need to cite or acknowledge it fully and properly.
Mainly, a citation must be included if AI was used to generate images or figures, you quote directly from content generated by AI, or you paraphrase content generated by AI.
Every submission will require an AI acknowledgment.
The acknowledgment statement will note any additional uses of AI, such as idea generation, conducting a literature review, providing feedback on writing, or suggesting edits for grammar or native English-language flow.
Using an AI tool without proper attribution violates the competition rules and may result in dismissal from the competition.
See Agricultural and Applied Economics Association's programs
This is a reading of what the funder has published, and it is not legal advice. A solicitation can set its own rule, so read the funding announcement before a PI applies.