Building Nonprofit Culture with Microsoft Viva Engage: Architecture and Step‑by‑Step Setup
Nonprofits often operate with hybrid teams, part‑time staff, and volunteers spread across multiple locations. Creating a unified culture in this environment is challenging — but Microsoft Viva Engage, part of the Microsoft Viva suite and built on Microsoft 365, provides a secure, social, and integrated platform for connection and knowledge sharing. This guide explains how nonprofits can use Viva Engage to strengthen culture, improve communication, and drive engagement across distributed teams. Viva Engage Architecture (Accurate Technical Overview) 1. Communities Persistent, topic‑ or role‑based spaces for collaboration. Common nonprofit examples: Volunteers Program teams Leadership groups Staff affinity or DEI groups Communities support: Announcements File sharing (via SharePoint) Events (including virtual events in Teams) Moderation and admin controls Learn more: Getting started with Viva Engage Communities in Microsoft Teams - Microsoft Support 2. Storylines Personal, profile‑based feeds where individuals share: Updates Reflections Wins and impact stories Storylines appear in Viva Engage, Outlook, and Teams, increasing visibility across the organization. Learn more: Storylines in Viva Engage | Microsoft Support 3. Campaigns Hashtag‑driven initiatives that bundle posts across communities and storylines. Ideal for: Fundraising drives Awareness campaigns Staff challenges Volunteer appreciation weeks Campaigns include: Goals Featured posts Leaderboards Analytics Learn more: Campaigns in Viva Engage | Microsoft Support 4. Knowledge Sharing Viva Engage includes structured knowledge tools: Answers — crowdsourced Q&A with upvoting and expert validation Topics — AI‑powered tagging and knowledge organization Expertise Discovery — identifies subject‑matter experts across the organization These features help nonprofits capture institutional knowledge and reduce information silos. Learn more: Answers in Viva: Introduction | Microsoft Support Learn more: Use topics in Viva Engage | Microsoft Support 5. Analytics Admins and leaders can access: Community engagement metrics Campaign performance Participation trends Influencer and contributor insights These insights help measure cultural health and communication effectiveness. Learn more: View and manage analytics in Viva Engage | Microsoft Learn How to Set Up Viva Engage for a Nonprofit (Technical How‑To) How to Create a Community (Step by Step): 1. Open Viva Engage In Microsoft Teams, select Viva Engage from the left app bar or Go to the web version: https://engage.cloud.microsoft/ (your tenant URL) 2. Select “Create a Community” In the left navigation pane, choose Communities Click Create a community 3. Name Your Community Choose a clear, descriptive name such as: Volunteer Hub Youth Programs Team Leadership Updates 4. Set Privacy Level You’ll choose between: Public — anyone in the organization can join Private — membership requires approval 5. Add Community Admins Admins can: Manage members Pin posts Post announcements Moderate content You can add multiple admins to share responsibility. Learn more: Getting started with Viva Engage Communities in Microsoft Teams - Microsoft Support Build a Campaign (Step by Step): A community campaign in Viva Engage helps drive engagement around a shared goal using a campaign hashtag. The steps below reflect exactly what Microsoft documents for creating a campaign inside a community. 1. Open Viva Engage Open Viva Engage in Microsoft Teams or the web app. 2. Go to Your Community Navigate to the community where you want to create the campaign. 3. Select “Create a Campaign” On the right side of the community page, find the Campaigns section. Select + Create a campaign. 4. Define the Campaign Hashtag Enter a unique campaign hashtag (e.g., #ImpactWeek). This hashtag becomes the campaign’s name and is used to group all related posts. 5. Add Campaign Details Fill in the required fields: Description — explain the purpose of the campaign Goals — outline what you want to achieve Cover image — upload a visual to represent the campaign Theme color — choose a color to brand the campaign Default publisher — choose the default post type (discussion, question, poll, praise) 6. Add Co‑Organizers (Optional) You can assign additional people to help manage the campaign. 7. Publish the Campaign Save your work. Review the campaign in draft mode. When ready, select Publish to make it visible to the community. 8. Invite Participation Encourage staff, volunteers, and leaders to: Post using the campaign hashtag Share stories, updates, or photos Engage with others’ posts All posts using the hashtag will automatically appear on the campaign page. Learn more: Campaigns in Viva Engage | Microsoft Support Enable Storylines (Step by Step): 1. Open the Microsoft 365 admin center Go to the Microsoft 365 admin center and sign in with an admin account. 2. Go to Viva Engage settings In the left navigation, go to Settings → Org settings. Find and select Viva Engage (or Yammer/Viva Engage depending on your tenant). 3. Enable Storylines In the Viva Engage settings, locate the Storylines option. Make sure Storylines is turned On for your organization. Save your changes. 4. Communicate to staff Let staff know Storylines are available in Viva Engage. Encourage them to share updates, impact stories, and reflections, and to follow colleagues’ storylines. Learn more: Storylines in Viva Engage | Microsoft Support Automate Notifications (Step by Step): You can use Power Automate to trigger actions when new Viva Engage (Yammer) messages are posted. The connector supports triggers such as “When there is a new message in a group” or “When a new message is posted”. Here is the correct step‑by‑step process: 1. Open Power Automate Go to Power Automate (flow.microsoft.com) and sign in with your Microsoft 365 account. 2. Create a new automated flow Select Create → Automated cloud flow. Search for the Yammer connector (used for Viva Engage). Choose a trigger such as: “When there is a new message in a group” or “When a new message is posted” (depending on your scenario and connector availability). This aligns with the triggers listed in the connector documentation. 3. Add an action to send a Teams notification Add a new step. Choose Microsoft Teams. Select an action such as: Post a message in a chat or channel Send a message to a user Configure the message to include details from the Viva Engage post (e.g., message text, author, link). 4. Add an action to log the post in SharePoint Add another step. Choose SharePoint. Select an action such as: Create item (to log each post in a list) Update item (if you maintain a running log) Map fields from the Viva Engage trigger (e.g., message ID, message text, sender, timestamp). 5. Save and test the flow Save the flow. Post a message in the selected Viva Engage community or group. Confirm that Teams receives the notification and SharePoint logs the entry. Learn more: Viva Engage - Connectors | Microsoft Learn Learn more: Explore the Power Automate home page - Power Automate | Microsoft Learn Conclusion For nonprofits working across hybrid teams, volunteers, and multiple locations, Viva Engage offers a simple way to build connection and culture. By setting up communities, launching campaigns, enabling Storylines, and automating key updates, organizations create a digital space where people stay informed, share impact, and feel part of the mission. With these tools in place, Viva Engage becomes a hub for communication, collaboration, and storytelling—helping your nonprofit stay aligned and engaged as it grows.Building a Secure Hybrid Workplace with OneDrive: Architecture, Security, and Best Practices
Hybrid work requires a zero‑trust, identity-driven architecture where users, devices, and data are continuously validated. Microsoft 365 — specifically OneDrive for Business backed by SharePoint Online — provides a distributed content services platform designed for secure collaboration at scale. This blog breaks down the core architecture, data protection mechanisms, and administrative controls that enable secure hybrid collaboration with OneDrive and Microsoft 365. 1. Storage Architecture (SharePoint Embedded Model) OneDrive is not a standalone storage system; it is built on SharePoint Online multi-tenant architecture: Each OneDrive account is a user-specific SharePoint Online personal site OneDrive is provisioned as a personal SharePoint site for each user when first accessed Link: Pre-provision OneDrive for users in your organization - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn} Files are stored within SharePoint document libraries Document libraries provide a central location to store, organize, and collaborate on files, including support for folders and shared access Link: Manage sharing settings for SharePoint and OneDrive in Microsoft 365 - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn Document libraries support permissions, versioning, and collaboration features Users can control access, track changes, and maintain version history directly within document libraries Link: Manage sharing settings for SharePoint and OneDrive in Microsoft 365 - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn Data Protection Mechanisms Encryption at rest using AES-256 across distributed storage Encryption in transit via TLS/HTTPS 👉Data encryption in OneDrive and SharePoint | Microsoft Learn Ransomware Resilience Built-in ransomware detection and recovery capabilities Version history (≥500 versions) enables recovery of previously unencrypted files Recycle bin (93-day retention) allows restoration of deleted files File Restore provides point-in-time rollback of OneDrive content 👉 Ransomware protection in Microsoft 365 2. Sync Engine & Client Architecture The OneDrive sync client (Next Generation Sync Client) provides synchronization between endpoints and Microsoft 365 cloud storage: Core Components Local cache + placeholder system The OneDrive sync client synchronizes files between the device and Microsoft 365, processing uploads and downloads as changes occur Link: How sync works - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn Files On-Demand virtualization layer With Files On‑Demand enabled, files appear as online-only files in File Explorer and are downloaded only when accessed Link: Save disk space with OneDrive Files On-Demand for Windows - Microsoft Support Sync Control Capabilities Admins can enforce: Domain-joined device restrictions Restrict sync to managed or compliant devices Link: Allow syncing only on computers joined to specific domains - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn Known Folder Move Redirect Desktop, Documents, and Pictures to OneDrive Link: Redirect and move Windows known folders to OneDrive - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn Bandwidth throttling policies Control sync throughput and limit upload/download rates Link: Network utilization planning for the OneDrive sync app - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn 3. Identity, Access, and Sharing Model Identity Plane (Microsoft Entra ID) Access to OneDrive is governed through: Microsoft Entra ID authentication Provides identity and access management for Microsoft 365 services Link: Understanding Microsoft Entra ID and OAuth 2.0 in the context of SharePoint Online modern development | Microsoft Learn Modern authentication protocols (OAuth 2.0) Used to authorize access to services and APIs in Microsoft 365 Link: Understanding Microsoft Entra ID and OAuth 2.0 in the context of SharePoint Online modern development | Microsoft Learn Conditional Access policies Enforce access controls such as requiring compliant devices or MFA Link: Enable conditional access support in the OneDrive sync app - SharePoint in Microsoft 365 | Microsoft Learn Technical Best Practices Security Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication Require compliant devices via Conditional Access Apply sensitivity labels for data classification Governance & Compliance Configure sharing restrictions Apply retention and DLP policies via Microsoft Purview Enable audit logging and eDiscovery Performance Optimization Enable Files On-Demand Limit sync scope to required libraries Avoid syncing large or high-change datasets Final Thought OneDrive is a cloud-native content platform built on SharePoint Online, secured through Microsoft Entra ID and governed by Microsoft 365 compliance capabilities. This architecture enables nonprofits to: Collaborate securely across distributed teams Enforce identity-driven access controls Protect data from loss, ransomware, and unauthorized access When aligned with Zero Trust principles, it delivers enterprise-grade security in a scalable, cloud-first model.Driving Engagement in Nonprofits with Viva Engage
Nonprofits commonly operate within resource-constrained, distributed environments, relying on a mix of full-time staff, part-time employees, volunteers, and partner organizations across regions. This creates challenges around: Maintaining mission alignment Scaling knowledge sharing across programs Sustaining culture and engagement without centralized offices Microsoft Viva Engage, part of the Microsoft Viva suite, provides a cloud-based, enterprise social layer within Microsoft 365 that enables nonprofits to build community, share knowledge, and foster engagement across geographic and organizational boundaries. [learn.microsoft.com] Unlike traditional communication tools, Viva Engage leverages: Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD) for secure identity and access management Microsoft 365 Groups + SharePoint for community structure and content storage Microsoft Graph for personalized content discovery and feed relevance This architecture allows nonprofits to operationalize culture as an ongoing system, rather than relying on one-way communication or manual coordination. Viva Engage Architecture (Nonprofit-Focused) 1. Communities (Mission-Aligned Collaboration Hubs) Communities act as structured collaboration environments for conversation, coordination, and knowledge sharing. They can be public or private depending on program sensitivity. Typical nonprofit segmentation: Volunteer networks (by region, campaign, or cohort) Program delivery teams (case management, outreach, education programs) Leadership and board communications Cross-functional initiatives (fundraising, advocacy, DEI) Technical capabilities: Integrated conversations, file sharing, and events Support for announcements, polls, Q&A, and recognition posts Backed by Microsoft 365 infrastructure for compliance and scalability Accessible via web, Teams, and mobile for field-based staff and volunteers 2. Storylines (Organization-Wide Visibility Layer) Storylines provide a personalized, organization-wide feed that enables individuals to share updates, experiences, and impact stories. Aggregate posts from followed users and trending organizational content Accessible across Teams, Outlook, and Viva Connections Extend visibility beyond individual communities through follower networks and discovery feeds 👉 Learn more: Storylines in Viva Engage Nonprofit value: Share impact stories from the field Highlight volunteer experiences Amplify mission-driven narratives across regions 3. Campaigns (Structured Engagement Programs) Campaigns enable nonprofits to run coordinated, measurable engagement initiatives using hashtags and centralized tracking. Aggregate participation through campaign hashtags Provide engagement analytics dashboards Support organization-wide or community-level campaigns 👉 Setup guide: Create campaigns in Viva Engage Example nonprofit campaigns: #GivingWeek → fundraising drives #VolunteerImpact → recognition campaigns #CommunityOutreach → awareness initiatives 4. Knowledge Sharing Layer (Answers, Topics, Q&A) Viva Engage supports crowdsourced knowledge exchange, which is critical for nonprofits with high staff and volunteer turnover. Q&A with Best Answer functionality to surface validated knowledge Answers in Viva for expert discovery and response routing Topic tagging to organize institutional knowledge 👉 To learn more visit: Answers in Viva: Ask a question - Microsoft Support and Answers in Viva: Introduction - Microsoft Support Nonprofit impact: Reduces dependency on tribal knowledge Accelerates onboarding of volunteers and new staff Preserves program expertise across regions 5. Analytics & Engagement Signals Viva Engage provides built-in insights to measure engagement and adoption: Community engagement metrics (posts, reactions, participation) Campaign performance tracking Leadership engagement visibility 👉 To learn more visit: View and manage analytics in Viva Engage | Microsoft Learn Nonprofit relevance: Track volunteer engagement trends Measure campaign participation (fundraising, awareness) Identify under-engaged programs or regions Integration Architecture Microsoft Teams Access Viva Engage directly within Microsoft Teams Embed Viva Engage communities or topics as tabs within Teams channels to enable in-context collaboration Allow team members to view, react to, and participate in Engage conversations without leaving Teams 👉 Integration details: Add a Viva Engage page to a Teams channel - Microsoft Support SharePoint (Nonprofit Intranet) Embed Engage conversations into intranet pages Turn static program pages into interactive discussion hubs 👉 Integration details: Use a Viva Engage web part in SharePoint - Microsoft Support and Include a Viva Engage feed in a SharePoint page | Microsoft Learn Power Platform (Automation) Use Power Automate with the Viva Engage connector to enable event-driven automation and cross-system integration: Trigger workflows when new messages are posted in a community or followed feed Retrieve and process messages, groups (communities), and conversation data for downstream systems Automatically post messages to Viva Engage communities from other systems or workflow 👉 Connector reference: Viva Engage connector Technical Implementation Guide Create a Community: Create a community in Viva Engage - Microsoft Support Create a Campaign: Set up official campaigns in Viva Engage | Microsoft Learn Conclusion Viva Engage enables nonprofits to move from fragmented communication to a structured, scalable engagement model. By combining communities, storylines, campaigns, and analytics—integrated across Teams, SharePoint, and Power Platform—organizations can strengthen culture, improve knowledge sharing, and expand mission impact across distributed teams.Comprehensive Security in the Era of AI: What Nonprofits Need to Know Now
Artificial intelligence is transforming the nonprofit landscape, opening new doors for impact while also introducing new responsibilities. As organizations work tirelessly to support communities, protect vulnerable populations, and steward limited resources, it’s more important than ever to ensure AI is used safely, ethically, and securely. Microsoft’s guide, Comprehensive Security in the Era of AI, offers nonprofits a clear, compassionate roadmap for navigating this moment of change. Below is a mission‑focused summary of the guide’s key insights and how they apply directly to the nonprofit sector. AI Is Accelerating Change—And Expanding Risk AI is introducing powerful new capabilities for nonprofits: automating manual tasks, enhancing team collaboration, analyzing data more quickly, and enabling more personalized engagement with communities. But the guide highlights a critical truth: AI also expands the attack surface. Patterns such as identity compromise, prompt manipulation, model poisoning, shadow AI, or unsecured integrations can introduce risk if organizations don’t have the right controls in place. Nonprofits must therefore take a proactive approach to securing AI-powered workflows. Pivoting to a Proactive Security Strategy To keep pace with emerging AI‑driven threats, the guide encourages nonprofits to adopt a forward‑looking, preventive approach to security. This includes: Strengthening identity protections (MFA, Conditional Access, least privilege) Securing data sources that feed AI systems Building policies around responsible AI use Creating guardrails for staff interacting with new AI tools Monitoring threats continuously instead of relying on periodic reviews This shift helps nonprofits stay ahead of evolving risks—rather than responding only after harm occurs. Three Essentials for Safe and Responsible AI Adoption Microsoft highlights three foundational requirements for nonprofits seeking to build trust, uphold their mission, and maintain resilience in an AI‑driven future: Comprehensive Security Controls - Security must encompass the entire AI lifecycle—from the data you collect to the insights AI tools generate. Microsoft Defender, Microsoft Entra, and Microsoft Purview bring together controls that protect identities, devices, apps, and data across your organization. Strong Compliance & Governance - Nonprofits steward some of the most sensitive data in the world. Maintaining privacy, compliance, and responsible AI governance is crucial. Purview’s data classification, labeling, and lifecycle management help ensure sensitive information stays protected. Clear Risk Mitigation Strategies - To use AI confidently, nonprofits need safeguards such as secure deployment practices, proper access management, incident response planning, and defenses against adversarial manipulation or misuse. Together, these pillars create a safe environment for innovation. Building an AI‑Ready Foundation With Microsoft 365 The guide emphasizes that secure AI adoption begins with strong digital fundamentals. Microsoft 365 supports nonprofits by enabling them to: Manage identities and access Automate device and patch management Classify and protect sensitive data Detect threats early Build a resilient security posture By hardening the basics, nonprofits create a strong foundation for safe AI adoption. Securing AI-Powered Productivity With Copilot Microsoft 365 Copilot introduces enormous efficiency potential—but nonprofits must ensure: Only trained staff use it Data shared with Copilot is properly classified Outputs are reviewed for accuracy AI usage aligns with safety, privacy, and beneficiary‑protection principles In short: AI should support your mission, never compromise it. Why This Matters for Nonprofits Nonprofits hold the trust of donors, partners, and—most importantly—the communities they serve. At the same time, the sector’s limited budgets and growing digital footprints make organizations especially vulnerable to attack. A secure AI strategy allows organizations to: Increase productivity Protect donor and beneficiary trust Reduce operational risk Innovate safely Maintain compliance with regulatory and ethical standards Security is not just an IT function—it’s core to protecting your mission. Learn More This blog only scratches the surface of the insights in Microsoft’s e‑book. To dive deeper into securing your AI journey, register for the free full guide here: Comprehensive Security in the Era of AI. It includes practical frameworks, best practices, and Microsoft tools designed specifically to help nonprofits operate securely in the age of AI.10 Nonprofit Technology Myths Debunked: What Cloud + AI Really Mean for Your Mission
Nonprofits are being asked to do more than ever—serve more people, manage more data, communicate across more channels, and respond to rising community needs. But with limited staff and tight budgets, many organizations feel stretched thin. Cloud technology and AI can help. They reduce busywork, strengthen security, and free your team to focus on what matters. Yet persistent myths often stop nonprofits from taking the next step. Let’s clear the fog. Here are the 10 biggest nonprofit technology myths debunked. Myth #1: “Tech is just an IT problem.” Reality: Tech powers every part of your mission. From fundraising to fieldwork, tools like Microsoft Teams, Defender, and Copilot help your whole organization collaborate, protect data, and work smarter. Myth #2: “AI will replace nonprofit jobs.” Reality: AI replaces busywork—not people. Drafting emails, summarizing meetings, automating reports—AI handles the repetitive tasks so your team can focus on human-centered impact. Myth #3: “The cloud is too expensive.” Reality: Microsoft offers deep nonprofit discounts. Think: • 75% off Microsoft 365 Business Premium • Azure credits • Free Power Apps for 10 users • Copilot discounts Cloud tech is now more affordable than maintaining aging servers. Myth #4: “Cloud migration is too complicated.” Reality: You can start small—and you don’t have to do it alone. There are several programs and partner to support helping nonprofits move at their own pace without disrupting operations. Myth #5: “Cloud tools only work online.” Reality: Microsoft 365 apps work offline, too. Staff can draft, edit, and respond anywhere perfect for field teams and rural programs. Myth #6: “Updates will break our systems.” Reality: Cloud updates reduce IT headaches. Microsoft handles compatibility, security, and maintenance so your team doesn’t have to. Myth #7: “On‑premises data is safer.” Reality: The Microsoft Cloud delivers enterprise‑grade security. With tools like Defender, Sentinel, and 24/7 monitoring, nonprofits get protection that’s nearly impossible to replicate on local servers. Myth #8: “Security isn’t my job.” Reality: Everyone plays a role. Since 60% of breaches involve human error, training + built‑in protections like MFA and conditional access make a huge difference. Myth #9: “Training is too expensive.” Reality: Microsoft offers robust nonprofit training—often free. Live events, self-paced learning, AI workshops, and product tutorials help every staff member build confidence. Myth #10: “IT must control all data.” Reality: Cloud governance enables secure, shared access. With proper permissions, staff can get the information they need—without bottlenecks. The Bottom Line Cloud + AI aren’t barriers—they’re accelerators. They give nonprofits more time, more security, more collaboration, and more impact. If your organization is ready to cut through the myths and move forward with confidence…sign up for the free eBook: 10 Nonprofit Technology Myths DebunkedHow Nonprofits Can Strengthen Cybersecurity with Small Steps (That Make a Big Difference)
Nonprofits are often stretched thin—limited budgets, diverse users, and critical missions. But that doesn’t mean cybersecurity has to be overwhelming. In fact, some of the most effective protections are simple, affordable, and accessible to organizations of any size. Below are practical steps every nonprofit can take to strengthen its security posture, along with upcoming nonprofit‑focused events designed to help your team build skills, stay informed, and protect your mission. Start with MFA (Multifactor Authentication) Turning on MFA is the single most impactful step any nonprofit can take to secure accounts. It protects your organization from: Password theft Account compromise Phishing attacks Phishing‑resistant MFA methods—such as Microsoft Authenticator or passkeys—offer the strongest protection. Secure Your Cloud Environment With many nonprofits using shared drives, third‑party tools, or cloud‑based CRMs, securing cloud configurations is essential. This includes: Using least‑privilege access Regularly reviewing permissions Enabling encryption Avoiding shared passwords Most breaches start with simple misconfigurations. A quick audit can dramatically reduce risk. Train Your Staff and Volunteers Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Short, simple training sessions can help your team recognize: Suspicious emails Unexpected login prompts Unsafe links Requests for personal or financial information Consistent training builds a culture of awareness and reduces the likelihood of human‑error‑based incidents. Use Security Tools to Safeguard Your Mission Many nonprofit discounts and grants make enterprise‑level protections more accessible. Solutions like Microsoft Defender and Microsoft 365 Business Premium include built‑in security features such as: Antivirus Threat detection Cloud app security Endpoint protection These tools help nonprofits stay secure—without adding complexity. And if your team is looking to deepen its understanding of how to use these solutions effectively, there are plenty of learning opportunities available. Nonprofit Events Discover tailored events and training opportunities designed to help you maximize your impact and strengthen your organization’s security posture. Gain expert insights, connect with industry leaders, and explore solutions built for nonprofit scenarios. See events below related specifically to security. Featured Events Below are upcoming and on‑demand security‑focused sessions especially relevant for nonprofits working to improve cybersecurity: Mastering Threat Detection and Response with Microsoft Defender XDR A deep dive into how Microsoft Defender XDR delivers extended detection and response across your digital estate. February 11, 2026 – 7:30 PM ET (Asia/ANZ) – Virtual February 12, 2026 – 11:00 AM ET (Americas) – Virtual Register: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams (Asia/ANZ) and Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams (Americas) Mastering SIEM & SOAR with Microsoft Sentinel: From Setup to Automation Learn how to configure SIEM and SOAR capabilities in Microsoft Sentinel to strengthen your security operations. February 25, 2026 – 7:30 PM ET (Asia/ANZ) – Virtual February 26, 2026 – 11:00 AM ET (Americas) – Virtual Register: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams (Asia/ANZ) and Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams (Americas) Unlocking AI‑Powered Security: A Deep Dive into Microsoft Security Copilot Explore how Microsoft Security Copilot combines generative AI with Microsoft’s security tools to help analysts investigate incidents and automate tasks. March 4, 2026 – 7:30 PM ET (Asia/ANZ) – Virtual March 5, 2026 – 11:00 AM ET (Americas) – Virtual Register: Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams (Asia/ANZ) and Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams (Americas) Strengthening Your Cybersecurity Strategy (On‑demand) This on‑demand session covers how to simplify security operations, enhance compliance, and empower your mission with confidence. On‑demand Register: Strengthening your Cybersecurity Strategy On-demand5 Essential Digital Skills Every Nonprofit Needs for 2026 and Beyond
With small teams and big missions, capacity comes from skills, not just software licenses. The right skill stack compounds value across your programs, fundraising, operations, and partnerships. Below are the five essential digital skills (plus starter steps you can take this month). Data Literacy — Turning Information into Insight Data powers everything from fundraising decisions to program outcomes. Every nonprofit should be able to: Understand what data they have Store it securely Use insights to improve services Basic familiarity with tools like Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and CRM systems gives your team the confidence to make informed decisions. Cybersecurity Awareness — Protecting People and Mission Nonprofits hold sensitive data about donors, employees, and the communities they serve. Key practices include: Strong, unique passwords Multifactor authentication (MFA) Recognizing phishing attempts Safely managing volunteer and staff access Cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s an essential part of safeguarding trust. Cloud Collaboration — Working Anywhere, Securely Cloud platforms like Microsoft 365 enable nonprofits to collaborate from anywhere while keeping data protected. Core skills include: Using shared documents Managing permissions Running effective virtual meetings Tracking version history Cloud adoption saves time, reduces costs, and helps teams stay aligned. AI Readiness — Knowing What’s Possible Artificial intelligence is transforming how nonprofits: Analyze data Use automation Engage supporters Deliver services Building AI readiness starts with small steps: understanding use cases, starting pilot projects, and preparing your data. Digital Storytelling — Sharing Your Mission in a Noisy World Turning your organization’s work into compelling digital stories helps you inspire supporters, engage communities, and build sustained interest. Foundational skills include: Structuring stories around impact Using visuals wisely Publishing consistently Repurposing content across channels These essential digital skills aren’t technical “extras”—they are the engine of a modern, mission‑driven organization. As nonprofits continue serving communities in a digital-first world, data literacy, cybersecurity, cloud fluency, AI readiness, and storytelling become core competencies that strengthen trust, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability. Investing in these skills today ensures your organization can innovate, adapt, and amplify impact tomorrow. Get started with your skilling journey: aka.ms/AISkillsNavigator and explore upcoming nonprofit skilling opportunities: Microsoft Nonprofit Events.Why “Working Smarter with AI” Matters for Every Nonprofit Right Now
Nonprofits are being asked to do more than ever, often with fewer people and tighter resources. Important mission‑driven work gets buried under emails, meetings, and administrative overload. Working Smarter with AI highlights a major shift happening across the sector — one that helps organizations reclaim time, reduce burnout, and refocus on what truly matters. AI Is Changing How Work Gets Done AI isn’t a future concept anymore. It’s already helping teams streamline tasks, cut through busywork, and stay focused on mission‑critical work. This isn’t about working faster — it’s about working smarter. Digital Debt Is Draining Teams Email overload, nonstop meetings, and constant information flow are holding staff back. AI can take on routine tasks so people can spend more time on creativity, strategy, and impact. Refocus on Mission‑Driven Work From summarizing documents to drafting content and analyzing information, AI tools remove the tedious parts of work and help teams reconnect with their purpose. AI as a True Productivity Partner Tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot support staff right inside the apps they already use. Whether it’s clearing inboxes, drafting grant proposals, or building presentations, AI gives teams a head start — and nearly 90% of users say it helps them feel more fulfilled. Built on Responsible AI Responsible AI ensures fairness, transparency, and privacy. It keeps people in control and supports staff rather than replacing them. A Better Way of Working AI gives nonprofits the opportunity to rethink how work happens — reducing burnout, boosting creativity, and helping teams stay focused on advancing the mission. Want to dive deeper? Get the free e‑book: Working Smarter with AIFrom Handshakes to AI: Toastmasters Evolves for a Global Future
For over 100 years, Toastmasters International has helped millions conquer glossophobia—the fear of public speaking—through live practice, structured feedback, and a strong sense of community. From local club meetings to international conferences, the nonprofit has built a legacy of empowering voices. Now, it’s embracing a new chapter: AI-powered transformation. Tradition Meets Technology Toastmasters is proving that tech and tradition can thrive together. With clubs in 150 countries and a growing global membership, the organization is modernizing how it connects, supports, and grows. From streamlining call center operations with Microsoft Omnichannel to editing educational materials with Microsoft 365 Copilot, Toastmasters is leveraging digital tools to enhance—not replace—the human touch. “Toastmasters is about human beings connecting with human beings and technology is helping us do that.” — Jason Caldwell Club Quality and Member Support Manager Smarter Support, Seamless Experience With just 30 call center staff serving 270,000 members worldwide, Toastmasters needed a smarter way to manage interactions. Enter Dynamics 365 Customer Service and Copilot-enabled Contact Center—a unified platform that centralizes calls, chats, and emails, giving staff a complete view of each member’s journey. Generative AI now summarizes conversations, manages cases, and even frees staff from typing during calls, allowing them to focus fully on the person behind the question. “It connects all the dots, giving everybody the information they need when they need it.” — Jason Caldwell Self-Service That Scales Toastmasters also adopted Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations, enabling members to join and pay dues online for the first time. This shift improves security, accuracy, and accessibility, especially for younger members who expect digital-first experiences. “It the twenty-first century, so we need to digitize the experience for our members.” — Heidi Hollenbeck, COO and CIO Meet Ora Tor: AI That Listens and Learns To further enhance member support, Toastmasters built Ora Tor, a generative AI chatbot using Microsoft Copilot Studio. Ora Tor draws from a rich knowledge base curated by staff, offering 24/7 answers to common questions and reducing barriers to engagement. Opening Doors to the Future Digitization isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about inclusion and growth. By offering a modern, tech-enabled experience, Toastmasters is attracting a younger, more diverse demographic, while making it easier for current members to stay involved. “Digitizing helps us open our doors to more people.” — Diana Passow, Marketing and Communications Director A Century of Impact, Powered by Innovation From handshakes to AI, Toastmasters is evolving to meet the needs of a global future. With Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Copilot technologies, the organization is scaling its mission, strengthening its brand, and continuing to empower speakers worldwide. To learn more about how they’re using AI to empower speakers worldwide, please visit: https://www.microsoft.com/en/customers/story/23396-toastmasters-international-dynamics-365-customer-service
Microsoft Teams Hacks You Didn’t Know You Needed
Microsoft Teams has become the heartbeat of modern collaboration—but are you using it to its full potential? Beyond chats and video calls, Teams is packed with hidden gems and clever shortcuts that can supercharge your workflow. Whether you're a seasoned user or just getting started, these hacks will help you work smarter, not harder. 1. Use Slash Commands in the Search Bar Type / in the search bar at the top of Teams to unlock a powerful list of quick commands that help you get things done faster. Some handy examples include: /busy – Instantly set your status to “Busy” so teammates know you’re heads-down. /Wikipedia Search – Find and share articles from Wikipedia without leaving Teams. /YouTube – Search for videos and even watch them together during meetings. 2. Pin Important Chats and Channels Keep your most-used conversations at the top by right-clicking and selecting “Pin”. No more scrolling through endless lists. 3. Use the “Immersive Reader” for Focused Reading Click the three dots (More actions) next to a message, then select Immersive Reader to view the text in a clean, distraction-free format—perfect for long or complex messages. 4. Integrate Your Favorite Apps Teams isn’t just for Microsoft tools—you can add apps like Trello, Asana, or even YouTube directly into channels. Just click “+” at the top of a channel to explore integrations. 5. Pop Out Chats and Meetings Need to multitask? The Open in new window feature in Microsoft Teams lets you seamlessly manage chats, meetings, apps, and channel conversations—without losing your place. With just a click, you can pop out key elements into separate windows and keep your workflow moving. 6. Search Smarter Use filters in the search bar to find messages, files, or people. You can even search by date, sender, or keyword. Conclusion: Microsoft Teams is more than just a meeting platform—it's a productivity powerhouse hiding in plain sight. By tapping into these lesser-known features and shortcuts, you can transform the way you collaborate, communicate, and manage your day-to-day tasks. From slash commands to immersive reading and app integrations, these hacks are designed to help you reclaim your time and sharpen your focus. So go ahead—pin those chats, pop out those windows, and search like a pro. The more you explore, the more you'll realize that Teams isn’t just a tool—it’s your secret weapon for working smarter.
