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 Yet many face familiar hurdles: limited budgets, outdated systems, rising data demands, and the need to stay connected with donors, volunteers, and the people they serve.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.REMINDER: Elevate Innovation Partner Connection Calls - Feb 5 (EMEA)
Register to join the Elevate Innovation Partner Connection Calls—interactive office hours designed to support partners delivering Nonprofit data solutions in Microsoft Fabric. Running January–March, these sessions help you confidently guide nonprofit customers through the Microsoft Fabric Public Preview with: Practical guidance and readiness updates Real-world partner learnings Direct access to the Elevate Innovation team Register to join the Microsoft Teams experience and select the session that works best for your region. What to Expect Documentation & Readiness Updates (5 min) Key updates, solution artifacts, and lessons learned. Partner Q&A (40 min) Open discussion to ask questions and walk through real scenarios. Partner Insights & Feedback (10 min) Share challenges and observations to help shape future improvements. Upcoming Sessions 👉 Register January 8, 2026: 8:00AM PST / 5:00PM CET - ENDED January 15, 2026: 7:00AM CST / 5:00PM AUST - ENDED January 22, 2026: 7:00AM PST | 4:00PM CET - ENDED February 5, 2026: 8:00AM PST | 5:00PM CET February 12, 2026: 7:00AM CET | 5:00PM AUST February 19, 2026: 7:00AM PST | 4:00PM CET March 5, 2026: 8:00AM PST | 5:00PM CET March 12, 2026: 7:00AM CET | 5:00PM AUST March 19, 2026: 7:00AM PST | 4:00PM CET We look forward to connecting and learning together.Don't forget to register for the upcoming Microsoft Elevate H2 Partner Kick‑Off - Feb 3 (EMEA) / Feb 4 (AEDT)
Microsoft Elevate H2 Partner Kick-Off Kick off the second half of the year with clarity, confidence, and momentum. Join the Microsoft Elevate H2 Partner Kick-Off, where nonprofit partners take center stage and Microsoft shares the priorities, programs, and investments shaping H2. Get a first look at what’s new across Elevate, plus practical guidance on skilling investments and go-to-market opportunities to help you grow and drive greater nonprofit impact. ✨ Why attend? Stay ahead of evolving Elevate priorities and expectations Discover where Microsoft is investing—and how to align for growth Accelerate your team’s skilling with new resources and tools Turn insights into action with clear next steps for H2 👉 Register for the session aligned to your region and head into H2 informed, aligned, and ready to win. EMEA/Americas session REGISTER: February 3, 2026 at 8:00AM PST | 4:00PM GMT ANZ/Asia session REGISTER: February 4, 2026 at 10:00AM AEDT | 8:00AM JST / February 3, 2026 at 3:00PM PST Be sure to follow the Partners for Social Impact discussion board to stay up to date on all announcements & events!
Microsoft Elevate Partner Community
Welcome to a community where Microsoft Elevate Partners lead with purpose and drive meaningful impact across the nonprofit sector. Every day, nonprofits work to protect rainforests, rescue animals, support children, and strengthen communities around the world. Through Microsoft Elevate, you are empowered to help these organizations achieve more—by applying your expertise, solutions, and services where they matter most. With more than 14 million eligible nonprofits globally, this purpose-driven sector represents a powerful opportunity to grow your business while advancing social good. As a Microsoft Elevate partner, you play a critical role in helping nonprofits modernize operations, strengthen security, adopt AI and cloud innovation, and make the most of limited resources. Together, we enable organizations to operate more efficiently, scale their impact, and stay secure in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. This is more than a go-to-market motion. Nonprofits rely on the same enterprise-grade technology as commercial organizations—and they depend on Microsoft and the Elevate partner ecosystem to guide their digital transformation. The work you do today helps transform lives, empower communities, and create lasting global impact. By engaging through Microsoft Elevate, you unlock new growth opportunities while fostering pride, purpose, and fulfillment within your team. Together, we’ve supported over 400,000 nonprofit organizations with modern, secure, and scalable Microsoft cloud solutions. Let’s continue building a connected ecosystem—where Microsoft Elevate partners, technology, and purpose come together to drive real-world change. Let’s make an impact. Together. Resources and Links Subscribe to receive Microsoft Elevate Partner Newsletters to stay up to date. Access the Nonprofit Partner Readiness site to review partner only resources. Visit the Microsoft Elevate Nonprofit Partner Desk to grow your nonprofit business. Follow Microsoft for Nonprofit on LinkedIn.
