Microsoft's Cloud First grant program represents a meaningful shift in how the company supports nonprofits. Starting in April 2022, on-premises software donations through TechSoup Canada were discontinued in favor of cloud-based offerings. For eligible nonprofits, this change opens access to significant free and discounted Microsoft 365 licenses.
What Changed for On-Premises Clients
On-premises Microsoft products are no longer available as nonprofit donations as of April 4, 2022. They remain accessible through TechSoup Canada at discounted charitable pricing, but the donation model for on-premises software has ended.
What Is Still Available Through TechSoup
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium: free for up to 10 users
- Microsoft 365 Business Basic: free for up to 300 users
- Power Apps per app plan: free for up to 10 seats
- Azure services: free credits up to $3,500 per year
How to Register for the Grant Program
Organizations already using TechSoup can access the Microsoft Nonprofit Hub and sign into their account. New organizations need to apply through the hub.
To update your profile, you will need:
- Nonprofit profile details including name, mission, activities, budget, and size
- Contact information
- Address information
- Registration information
An important note: Microsoft requires that the nonprofit registration be completed by an employee or strategic volunteer of the organization. Third-party IT providers cannot complete registration on behalf of a nonprofit.
What the Program Offers
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium: Free for the first 10 users, discounted for users 11 through 300
- Windows 11 Professional: Full version with downgrade rights to Windows 10
- 50 granted licenses: Available per registered nonprofit, with discounted purchase options for additional seats
- Surface devices: 8 percent purchase discount
- Power BI Desktop: Free
- Azure: Up to $3,500 in annual credits
- Dynamics 365: Significantly reduced pricing for sales, customer service, and membership subscriptions
Additional Resources
Microsoft offers customized training through the Digital Skills Center for Nonprofits, covering topics related to Microsoft cloud solutions. The Microsoft Nonprofit Hub is the central resource for eligibility information, registration, and a full catalog of available offerings.
If your nonprofit is navigating this transition or wants help getting the most from the available grants, reach out to us.