Dear non-profit and public sector colleague,
The world of AI discoverability is constantly evolving, and the latest developments in Google AI Mode and AI Overviews once again demand your attention. A recent report from September 2026 highlights a significant shift: although your organisation might be cited as a source in an AI Overview, this by no means guarantees that you will also be recommended as the primary information source. In fact, sources cited in an AI Overview were excluded from the model’s actual recommendation a staggering 69% of the time.
This nuance is crucial, especially now that Google has integrated Gemini 3.7 Flash into AI Mode, a model described as “better at following instructions and understanding intent.” This means that AI systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated in selecting information, with the focus extending beyond merely finding relevant facts.
The Nuance Between Citation and Recommendation
While traditional search results often revolve around “ranking” and “clicks”, AI operates differently. An AI Overview can cite multiple sources to compile an answer. This is valuable for authority and recognition. However, recent data shows a significant difference between a citation and an active recommendation by the AI as the most relevant or complete source for further action or information.
The introduction of Gemini 3.7 Flash underscores this. A model that better understands a user’s intent will likely not only search for facts but also for context, reliability, and the most direct path to resolving the user’s query. This could mean that a source which is clear, verifiable, and action-oriented has a greater chance of being recommended.
What Does This Mean For You?
As a non-profit or public sector organisation, trust is your most valuable asset. Being recommended by an AI assistant can bridge the gap between passive knowledge and active engagement from citizens, donors, or grant providers.
- Focus on clarity and usability: Ensure your information is not only accurate but also easy to understand and directly usable. Think clear answers to frequently asked questions, step-by-step guides, or straightforward contact information.
- Verifiable authority: Make it explicit why your organisation is the authority on a particular subject. Use structured data (schema.org) to clearly mark your organisation, mission, and expertise. While there isn’t a “special” schema specifically for AI search engines, accurate structured data helps search systems better understand entities, page types, and relationships.
- Content for intent: Consider not only which keywords people use but also what intent they have. How can your content directly solve a problem or answer a question that the AI would want to recommend?
- Keep monitoring: Developments are moving fast. Keep an eye on the performance of your content in AI Overviews and AI Mode (for example, via Google Search Console, which now offers reports for generative AI features). Analyse what works and adjust your strategy accordingly.
AI systems are developing at a rapid pace. By anticipating AI’s evolving criteria for recommendations, you ensure that your important message is not only found but also truly achieves the impact it deserves.
