- Are you sure your nonprofit is using every cybersecurity and cloud credit available?
- Do you know which CRM and productivity tools offer free or discounted nonprofit plans?
- And is your organization missing out on thousands in potential savings just by skipping verification steps?
In last month’s Nonprofit Thought Leadership Newsletter, we shared Part 1 of our guide and highlighted the core technology programs offered by Microsoft, Google, and other major providers. Many of you reached out, surprised by how many savings opportunities were still untapped. This month, we are continuing that conversation with Part 2, focusing on cybersecurity, CRM tools, cloud credits, and the overlooked programs that can further strengthen your nonprofit’s technology and security posture.
A Story from the Field
Earlier this year, a local health-focused nonprofit came to us after suffering a small cyber incident. They assumed that advanced security solutions were out of their budget. After reviewing their setup, we discovered several vendor programs they qualified for that offered free or discounted protection. Within weeks, they had enterprise-level firewalls, endpoint protection, and secure cloud storage, all at a fraction of their previous cost.
Their story is a reminder that cybersecurity and efficiency do not have to be expensive when you know where to look.
At TruAdvantage, we specialize in helping nonprofits identify, apply, and implement the technology discounts that truly make a difference. In Part 2 of this guide, we will explore additional programs beyond Microsoft and Google that can help your nonprofit strengthen security, streamline operations, and stretch your technology budget even further.
1. Cybersecurity and Cloud Discounts
Nonprofits are now among the top targets for cyberattacks, making security a top priority. Fortunately, many leading vendors offer nonprofit pricing and credits for advanced protection.
Examples:
• Cisco Meraki, discounted secure Wi-Fi, firewalls, and network equipment
• Sophos, Bitdefender, and ESET, special nonprofit pricing for antivirus and endpoint protection
• AWS Cloud Credits for Nonprofits, free credits to host websites, apps, and databases securely
Why it matters:
Affordable access to advanced security tools allows nonprofits to protect sensitive data and maintain donor trust without overspending. Combined with TruAdvantage’s Managed Cybersecurity services, these programs help safeguard your mission.
2. CRM, Fundraising, and Productivity Tools
Modern nonprofits depend on CRM and fundraising platforms to manage donors, volunteers, and campaigns efficiently. Many leading providers now extend nonprofit-friendly pricing.
Examples:
• Salesforce Nonprofit Success Pack, 10 free licenses plus discounted upgrades
• Bloomerang and Keela, affordable donor and fundraising tools
• Asana, Slack, and Trello, free or discounted collaboration and project management plans
• HubSpot for Nonprofits, marketing and CRM discounts of up to 40 percent
Why it matters:
These tools improve engagement, transparency, and team coordination. When integrated with TruAdvantage’s Cloud Services, they create a seamless digital ecosystem that scales as your nonprofit grows.
3. How to Qualify and Apply for Nonprofit Discounts?
Most vendors follow a similar process to verify nonprofit eligibility and unlock discounts.
Key steps:
- Provide 501(c)(3) documentation or equivalent nonprofit certification.
- Verify through an approved nonprofit portal or validation service.
- Apply through the vendor’s nonprofit registration page using your organization’s domain email.
- Keep your EIN and IRS determination letter ready.
Why it matters:
Missing one verification step or applying through the wrong channel can delay or even block approval. Working with an experienced Managed IT Partner ensures your configurations are correct and compliant.
4. Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make
Even with these programs available, many nonprofits miss valuable savings.
Common examples:
• Applying directly to vendors instead of using nonprofit validation channels
• Allowing licenses to renew at full price
• Forgetting to activate or track cloud credits
• Leaving Google Ad Grants unused
Why it matters:
These issues add unnecessary expense and reduce the long-term value of your tech stack. Partnering with a team like TruAdvantage ensures optimization throughout the year.
5. How TruAdvantage Helps Nonprofits Maximize Discounts
Our nonprofit-specialized team helps organizations identify and integrate the best vendor programs while ensuring ongoing alignment with security and compliance requirements.
What we do:
• Assess eligibility for all major nonprofit programs
• Configure licenses correctly and avoid unnecessary costs
• Integrate security, compliance, and collaboration systems
• Provide ongoing Managed IT and Compliance support
Why it matters:
Nonprofits deserve powerful technology that supports their mission without draining their budget. TruAdvantage ensures every dollar spent contributes directly to impact.
We are an Nonprofit-focused, Award-winning IT Solutions providers in San Francisco, San Jose and Northern California.Need Managed IT Services for your Nonprofit?
Takeaway
Nonprofit technology does not have to be costly. With the right approach, your organization can access enterprise-level cybersecurity, CRM tools, and cloud services at a fraction of the standard price.
If you have not evaluated your technology discounts recently, now is the time.
Get Your Free IT and Security Health Check for Nonprofits
Your organization may already qualify for discounts and credits you are not using. Let our team help you uncover them.
Download our Exclusive Nonprofit Guide to get started.
And if you’d like tailored advice, schedule a Free IT and Security Health Check for Bay Area nonprofits. Our team has helped California nonprofits transform IT from a cost center into a mission enabler.
Click here to schedule a call with us
Categories: NonProfit Orgs
