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Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Microsoft To Offer Nonprofits Office 365 Free Of Charge

Tech giant Microsoft announced Tuesday that it would be offering qualified nonprofits free versions of its Office 365 program.

As reported on CNET.com, this offer allows nonprofits in 41 countries worldwide to use Office 365 -- which contains word processing, e-mail, video conferencing, and calendar programs -- in their workplace free of charge. The donation program is part of the Redmond, Wash.-based software company's larger "Technology for Good" initiative, which distributes $2 million worth of software every day to organizations around the globe.

"In the hands of nonprofit organizations, technology can boost productivity, increase effectiveness through better collaboration, and extend services to new communities and individuals in need," Microsoft wrote on its web site. "Moreover, technology can be a powerful force that opens exciting opportunities for nonprofits to better achieve their missions and accelerate their impact."

Organizations must be recognized as a tax-exempt organization in their respective countries to qualify for this giveaway. In addition, eligible organizations should work to improve their communities in a meaningful way, including, but not limited to:

  • Providing relief to the poor;
  • Advancing education;
  • Improving social welfare;
  • Preserving culture;
  • Preserving or restoring the environment;
  • Promoting human rights; and,
  • Establishment of a civil society.
One confirmed, organizations will have the choice to upgrade their Office 365 program to a cloud-only version for a reduced price of $4.50 (down from $20). You can find out more about this offer on Microsoft's website

Do you think your nonprofit will take advantage of this program? Let us know in our comments section.

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