How Cloud + AI Solutions Empower Nonprofits to Do More with Less
Nonprofits play a vital role in our communities—delivering essential services, supporting vulnerable groups, and driving social change. Yet many face familiar hurdles: limited budgets, outdated systems, rising data demands, and the need to stay connected with donors, volunteers, and the people they serve. Cloud technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are helping nonprofits overcome these challenges. Solutions like Microsoft Azure make it easier to modernize, stay secure, and expand impact. The Cloud + AI Advantage for Nonprofits Cloud computing provides secure storage, flexible computing power, and modern tools without costly infrastructure. AI builds on that foundation—analyzing data, automating tasks, understanding language, and making predictions that help teams work smarter. Together, cloud and AI help nonprofits: Reduce manual work Improve staff and volunteer efficiency Personalize communications Gain deeper data insights Build more responsive, effective programs In short, AI becomes a digital copilot that frees teams to focus on their mission. Secure Data, Stronger Trust Nonprofits manage sensitive information and complex compliance needs. Azure offers built‑in security, encryption, and access controls—allowing organizations to protect data with enterprise‑grade safeguards, without needing a large IT team. Modernize Without Overspending Aging servers and disconnected systems slow organizations down. Azure enables nonprofits to: Move files and apps to the cloud Scale storage as needed Avoid expensive hardware upgrades Reduce downtime and crashes This flexibility stretches budgets while improving reliability. Unlock Better Insights With AI Data is powerful only when it’s usable. Azure AI helps nonprofits analyze trends, measure impact, forecast needs, and improve engagement—turning raw data into actionable insights. Do More With Limited Resources Small teams often juggle many roles. Cloud automation and AI‑enhanced workflows streamline processes, reduce manual tasks, and boost productivity—so more time goes toward serving communities. Ready to Explore Azure? Cloud and AI don’t replace human effort—they amplify it. With the right foundation, nonprofits can become more agile, secure, and impactful. Register for the eBook: The cloud + AI: Microsoft Azure solutions for nonprofitsIntro to Functions in Excel for Nonprofits
Getting Started with Functions Excel provides a wide range of built-in functions that simplify data management. You can find these functions in the Formulas tab under categories like Text, Date & Time, Financial, and more. The Insert Function tool also allows you to search for functions by name and get guided assistance in applying them. When typing a function in a cell, start with = followed by the function name (e.g., =SUM). Excel will suggest matching functions and provide a tooltip to help you understand how to use them. 💡 Copilot for Excel can now assist in automating many of these calculations. Instead of manually writing formulas, you can ask Copilot to "sum all donations in column B" or "find the average grant amount." Copilot intelligently applies the correct functions, making Excel even more powerful for nonprofit teams. However, understanding the behind-the-scenes of how these functions work is still valuable—especially if you need to troubleshoot, customize, or work in environments where AI assistance isn't available. Now, let’s look at some practical examples tailored for nonprofits. Example 1: Calculating Total Donations Nonprofits often track donations in spreadsheets to monitor fundraising performance. If you have a list of donations in column I, you can calculate the total amount received by clicking under the donation entries and entering the SUM function: =SUM(H2:H11) You can also enter =SUM and then highlight the area of data you want summed up. This formula adds up all donation amounts in the range H2 to H11, giving you the total funds raised. Press enter to reveal the SUM. 👉 Use Case: This is useful for monthly or annual donation tracking, allowing you to report on fundraising progress to donors and stakeholders. Example 2: Finding the Average Grant Amount If your nonprofit receives multiple grants, you might want to find the average grant amount to understand typical funding levels. The AVERAGE function makes this easy: =AVERAGE(H2:H11) This formula calculates the mean grant amount from a list of grants stored in column H. Press enter to reveal the AVERAGE. 👉 Use Case: This helps nonprofits set realistic fundraising goals and benchmark funding expectations for future grant applications. Example 3: Finding a Donor’s Most Recent Contribution If you have a donor database and need to find the most recent donation from a specific donor, you can use VLOOKUP. Suppose donor names are in column A and donation amounts are in column B. To find the donation amount from John Doe, use: =VLOOKUP("John Doe", A2:B26, 2, FALSE) Let's break down the formula =VLOOKUP("John Doe", A2:B26, 2, FALSE): "John Doe": This is the value you want to search for in the first column of the specified range. In this case, you are looking for "John Doe". A2:B26: This is the range of cells where you want to perform the search. The function will look for "John Doe" in the first column of this range (column A) and return a value from the second column (column B) in the same row. 2: This is the column index number from which to return the value. Since the range starts from column A and goes to column B, the second column (column B) is where the function will look to find the value to return. FALSE: This specifies that you want an exact match. If "John Doe" is not found exactly in column A, the function will return an error.sxx This searches for "John Doe" in column A and returns the corresponding donation amount from column B. Press enter to find John’s donation. 👉 Use Case: Nonprofits can use this to quickly look up donor contributions when sending thank-you emails or preparing personalized reports. Example 4: Counting the Number of Volunteers Registered Many nonprofits rely on volunteers, and tracking engagement is crucial. If you have a list of volunteer sign-ups in column D, you can use COUNTA to count the total number of registered volunteers: =COUNTA(D2:D21) (Imagine this is for a data set of a much larger quantity “D5062”) This function counts all non-empty cells in the given range, giving you the number of registered volunteers. Press enter to get the count. 👉 Use Case: This helps organizations track volunteer engagement for event planning, program management, and reporting to grant funders. Wrapping Up Excel functions can significantly improve efficiency in nonprofit operations, helping teams manage donations, grants, volunteers, and more. By mastering functions like SUM, AVERAGE, VLOOKUP, and COUNTA, nonprofit professionals can streamline their data management and focus more on their mission rather than administrative tasks. 💡 While Copilot for Excel can automate many of these tasks, understanding the "old-school" way of using functions helps you troubleshoot, refine formulas for custom needs, and work in environments where AI may not be available. Next Steps 📌 Try these formulas on your own nonprofit data 📌 Explore additional functions like IF, COUNTIF, and INDEX-MATCH 📌 Consider Power Query for more advanced nonprofit reporting needs For additional insights and tips on mastering Excel Fundamentals, be sure to explore the blog posts below. Master Excel Like a Pro: Must-Know Tutorials & Templates for Nonprofits | Microsoft Community Hub Getting Familiar with Microsoft Excel | Microsoft Community Hub Getting Familiar with Microsoft Excel - How to Build a Data Table | Microsoft Community Hub Excel functions (alphabetical) - Microsoft SupportInternational Day of Women & Girls in Science: Where Barriers Fall and Breakthroughs Rise
When women aren’t better represented in science, the world loses the breakthroughs we need most. Today, women make up just 35% of STEM graduates and only one‑third of researchers, while 122 million girls around the world are still out of school — a staggering amount of unrealized potential. On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we’re honoring the organizations showing what’s possible when those barriers fall. When women lead, innovation accelerates, equity expands, and the future opens wider for all of us. Explore our LinkedIn article spotlighting four women who reveal what becomes possible when every barrier comes down: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-demandTurning Nonprofit Data Into Real Mission Power
Nonprofits today are surrounded by more data than ever before — but turning that information into real mission impact is still a challenge for many organizations. When data lives in disconnected systems or isn’t being used to its full potential, it becomes a barrier instead of a strength. With a thoughtful, mission‑aligned data strategy, however, data can become one of the most powerful tools your organization has. Harnessing Your Data to Drive Nonprofit Mission Success lays out a practical, easy‑to‑follow roadmap for nonprofits that want to modernize their data practices and unlock the full value of their information. A Mission‑Driven Approach to Data The guide reinforces a simple truth: data isn’t just a technical asset — it’s a strategic one. When nonprofits build the right data foundation, they strengthen programs, improve decision‑making, and accelerate mission outcomes. It also addresses the challenges many organizations face: Data scattered across multiple systems Technology purchased reactively instead of strategically Limited staff capacity to analyze or use data Increasing expectations from funders, partners, and communities The resource offers a clear path for moving from fragmented systems to a unified, mission‑aligned data approach. A Clear Roadmap for Building a Modern Data Strategy The guide breaks down the essential components of a strong data strategy, including: A scalable data foundation - A cloud‑based lakehouse gives nonprofits a single, secure place to store and work with all their data — and prepares them for analytics and AI. Strong data governance - Clear standards and policies ensure data is accurate, trusted, and used responsibly. Better data quality and cataloging - The guide explains how to improve data quality and create shared understanding across teams. Organization‑wide data access - When staff can explore and use data independently, they make faster, more informed decisions. Innovation through AI and advanced analytics - With the right foundation, nonprofits can begin using AI to uncover insights, streamline operations, and create new mission‑driven capabilities. Cost Savings and Operational Efficiency The guide highlights how consolidating data tools into Microsoft Fabric can reduce costs and simplify operations. Organizations can benefit from: Lower licensing and training costs Reduced IT overhead Increased staff productivity More value from data that was previously siloed Scalable growth without additional software purchases For nonprofits working with limited resources, these efficiencies can make a meaningful difference. Keeping Data Aligned With Your Mission A major theme in the guide is ensuring your data strategy reflects your mission and values. It walks nonprofits through: Setting clear OKRs Defining KPIs that measure real progress Ensuring data practices align with organizational ethics Building a culture where data empowers everyone This mission‑first approach ensures that data work directly supports the outcomes that matter most. A Framework Built for Nonprofit Growth The guide outlines a comprehensive data strategy framework that includes: Data Infrastructure Data Engineering Data Science & Analysis Data Governance Data Literacy & Democratization Data Products Together, these elements help nonprofits build a data practice that is scalable, sustainable, and aligned with long‑term mission goals. Explore the Full Guide The resource Harnessing Your Data to Drive Nonprofit Mission Success offers a step‑by‑step roadmap for elevating your organization’s data strategy and unlocking meaningful insights. Sign up to access the full e‑book: Harnessing your data to drive nonprofit mission success5 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 AIWhat Are Canvas Apps? Your Guide to No-Code App Design
What Are Canvas Apps in Power Apps? If you’ve ever wished you could build a business app without hiring developers or writing code, Canvas apps in Microsoft Power Apps make that possible. Think of it as starting with a blank canvas where you design the app exactly how you want — by dragging and dropping components and using simple, Excel-like formulas for logic. Why Canvas Apps Are a Game-Changer Canvas apps give you complete control over the look and feel of your app. You can: Arrange elements in any layout for a custom user experience. Connect to data from Microsoft services like Dataverse, SharePoint, or Excel, as well as third-party sources. Share your app so it runs in a browser, on mobile devices, or even embedded in Teams, SharePoint, or Power BI. Build Faster with Copilot One of the most exciting features is Copilot in Power Apps Instead of starting from scratch, you can simply describe what you want your app to do in natural language — and AI will build it for you. From creating screens to adding logic, Copilot makes app development faster and easier. Ways to Create Canvas Apps You can start with: A sample app or template Data from Dataverse, SharePoint, or Excel Or build completely from scratch for full flexibility After generating an app, you can customize it to fit your workflows — change which data appears, how it’s sorted, and add screens, galleries, and forms. Sharing and Running Your App When your app is ready, save it to the cloud and share it with your team. You control who can run the app and whether they can customize it. Apps can run on Windows, in a web browser, or on iOS/Android devices. In Conclusion Canvas apps are perfect for anyone who wants to turn ideas into working solutions quickly. Whether you’re building a CRM, tracking volunteers, or streamlining operations, Power Apps gives you the tools to create apps without complexity.AI in Care Services: Restoring the Human Touch
Frontline care workers are the heart of our communities—but many are overwhelmed by paperwork, policies, and burnout. In Australia alone, the care sector faces a 344,000-worker shortage. The question isn’t just how to meet demand—it’s how to care for the caregivers. Two nonprofits—Uniting NSW.ACT in Australia and Parlan in the Netherlands—are showing how AI can do just that. Uniting NSW.ACT: Meet Buddy, the AI Sidekick Serving 148,000 clients annually, Uniting needed a smarter way to work. Enter Buddy, an AI assistant built on Microsoft Azure. What Buddy Delivers: Case notes in 2 minutes (down from 15) Voice-to-text documentation, even in remote areas Instant access to 1,600 policies More time for personal, compassionate care Buddy uses Azure OpenAI Service and a Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) approach to surface accurate policy guidance and streamline compliance. It saves frontline workers nearly an hour per day, improves onboarding, and helps attract and retain staff in a tight labor market. By reducing administrative burdens, Buddy empowers carers to focus on what matters most—human connection. Parlan: Copilot for Mental Health Dutch nonprofit Parlan provides mental health care to children and families with complex needs. To reduce paperwork and improve care, Parlan adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot. What Copilot Delivers: Therapy reports in minutes Faster prep for complex cases Real-time translation in Teams Easy creation of therapeutic tools Copilot helps staff summarize hundreds of pages of client history, draft reports quickly, and even translate conversations during live sessions. It also assists in creating therapeutic stories—tasks that once took hours now take minutes. By streamlining administrative work, Copilot gives practitioners more time for direct care. Why It Matters This isn’t just about speed—it’s about wellness. Less admin means: Lower stress Reduced burnout Higher job satisfaction Better client outcomes The Big Picture AI isn’t replacing care—it’s restoring time, trust, and connection. Tools like Buddy and Copilot help workers do what they do best: care deeply, and serve with purpose. To learn more about their story, please visit Microsoft for Nonprofits: (21) How Technology Is Boosting Worker Wellness and Restoring the Human Touch | LinkedIn
