Did you know October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month?
It’s the perfect time for nonprofits to strengthen their digital defenses and build a culture of security. This year’s theme— “Cybersecurity first, stay safe always”—is a powerful reminder to prioritize digital safety in every aspect of your mission. Whether you're protecting donor data, securing service delivery systems, or educating your team, cybersecurity is foundational to trust, resilience, and impact.
What to Expect in October
Throughout the month, Microsoft Elevate will be sharing a curated collection of resources designed to help nonprofit organizations build awareness, strengthen defenses, and elevate cybersecurity capabilities across their teams.
Please see the resources below to explore and share with your teams:
- Cybersecurity Awareness Month Website - Explore best practices, infographics, videos, guidance tailored for organizations and individuals—and discover training and learning resources to build cybersecurity skills.
- Live: October 1, 2025
- Link: https://aka.ms/CybersecurityAwareness
- Be Cybersmart Kit: - Infographics and tips to help your team stay secure in the age of AI.
- Live: October 1, 2025
- Link: https://aka.ms/BeCybersmartKit
Skilling Opportunities for Nonprofit Teams
Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. These free learning pathways and scholarship programs are designed to build skills and confidence across your organization:
- Career Essentials in Cybersecurity – LinkedIn Learning pathway with certification
- Securing You – MS Learn Pathway – Basics and Zero Trust modules
- Women in Cloud – Coursera access, mentorship, and certification vouchers for women in the US
- Link: https://aka.ms/WiC
- Last Mile Education Fund – Scholarships for US community college students pursuing cybersecurity careers
Why It Matters for Nonprofits
Nonprofits are trusted stewards of sensitive data and critical services. Cybersecurity isn’t optional—it’s essential. By participating in Cybersecurity Awareness Month, you’re not just protecting your systems—you’re protecting your mission.
A Final Word
Cybersecurity isn’t just a technical priority—it’s a mission-critical responsibility. For nonprofits, safeguarding digital assets means protecting the communities you serve, the trust you’ve built, and the impact you strive to make every day. This October, let’s move beyond awareness and into action. With the right tools, training, and support, your organization can lead with confidence and resilience in an increasingly digital world. Together, we can make cybersecurity second nature—because when nonprofits stay secure, missions thrive.
What’s Next
As Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues, we’ll be spotlighting key insights from the upcoming Microsoft Digital Defense Report - a trusted annual resource that dives deep into emerging threats, evolving attack patterns, and actionable strategies tailored for nonprofits.
This follow-up feature will offer timely intelligence to help your organization refine its security posture and stay ahead of the curve.
Together, we can ensure nonprofits stay secure—so their missions continue to change lives.
