CSI Tech Corp is a local IT partner helping local nonprofits use Microsoft 365 reliably, securely and with no stress.
Changes to Microsoft 365 Nonprofit Licenses
On July 1, 2025, Microsoft updated its nonprofit licensing program and phased out several previously available free licenses, including Microsoft 365 Business Premium and Office 365 E1. Organizations that used these licenses were required to transition to other Microsoft 365 nonprofit plans at their next renewal.
Microsoft continues to offer:
up to 300 free Microsoft 365 Business Basic licenses;
at least a 50% discount on Microsoft 365 Business Standard.
Paid nonprofit licenses were not affected.
Microsoft 365 is the new name for Office 365, and there are no functional differences between the two.
Transform Your Nonprofit Operations with Microsoft 365
Nonprofit organizations in Minnesota face unique challenges, from managing tight budgets to maintaining smooth operations. M365 (or Office 365) for nonprofits provides you with affordable tools to streamline communication, enhance collaboration, and securely manage data, all in one place.
Microsoft Office 365 nonprofit discounted or free licenses for eligible non-profits.
Nonprofit scalable IT solutions with Office 365 to grow with your organization.
Secure cloud-based access to emails, files, and collaboration tools.
Advanced applications like Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Why Nonprofits Need M365
Collaboration
Host virtual meetings with Microsoft Teams, share files on OneDrive, and co-author documents in real-time.
Security
Protect sensitive data with built-in enterprise-grade security features like data encryption and compliance tools.
Productivity
Work smarter with apps like Outlook, Excel, and Word, designed to handle your day-to-day operations efficiently.
Scalability
Choose from a range of subscription plans that grow with your team’s needs.
4 Steps to Start Using M365
STEP 1:
Check Eligibility
Verify your organization’s non-profit status with Microsoft.
STEP 2:
Choose a Plan
Pick the plan that fits your needs—free or discounted options available.
STEP 3:
Onboard Your Team
We’ll help you set up and migrate your data.
STEP 4:
Start Working Smarter
Enjoy seamless collaboration and productivity tools.
Check Nonprofit Eligibility
Step-by-step guide on how nonprofits can qualify for M365
STEP 1:
Check Your Eligibility
Visit Microsoft’s Nonprofit Eligibility Page to confirm your organization qualifies. Ensure you meet the requirements and gather necessary documentation.
STEP 2:
Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need:
Proof of nonprofit status (e.g., 501(c)(3) documentation in the U.S.). & Information about your organization’s mission and activities.
STEP 3:
Register with Microsoft
Create an account and submit your application through the Microsoft Nonprofit Portal.
STEP 4:
Await Verification
Microsoft will review your application, which typically takes 5–10 business days.
STEP 5:
Activate Your Benefits
Once approved, access discounted or free Microsoft 365 plans, Azure credits, and more to empower your organization.
Get Help with Setting up Microsoft 365
We’ll guide you through security, training, and cost-saving licensing.
How CSI Helped a Burnsville
Nonprofit With Transition to Microsoft 365
Services offered: Installation, migration, staff training, and ongoing support.
The Problem
A local nonprofit recently rebranded, but their old email addresses and domain no longer matched their new name. This caused confusion for staff, donors, and partners.
IT Solution
We registered a new domain, updated DNS records, migrated their website and Microsoft 365 accounts, and set up email forwarding so messages sent to the old domain were not lost.
The Result
Staff now use their new branded email seamlessly across Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive—without losing a single message. The transition was smooth, stress-free, and helped strengthen the nonprofit’s professional image.
Your Questions, Answered
- Who qualifies for Office 365 Non-Profit?
Organizations with verified non-profit status under IRS 501(c)(3) or similar classifications are eligible.
- Is Office 365 really free for non-profits? What is the cost of Office 365 for nonprofits?
Yes, Microsoft offers a free plan of Office 365 for eligible nonprofits, including access to core apps like Word, Excel, and Teams.
- What is the cost of Office 365 for nonprofits?
In addition to the free plan, nonprofits can access premium plans at significant discounts. Contact CSI Tech Corp for help choosing the best option for your organization.
- Can we get help with onboarding?
Absolutely! CSI Tech Corp provides expert assistance with Office 365 onboarding to ensure a smooth setup for your nonprofit. Contact us to get started.
- How do I apply for nonprofit discounts?
Nonprofits in Minnesota can access Office 365 discounts by verifying their nonprofit status through Microsoft’s Nonprofit Portal. Need help? Contact us at CSI Tech Corp for guidance on the application process.
- Can small nonprofits use Office 365?
Yes, small nonprofits can use Office 365. Microsoft offers discounted or free plans tailored to nonprofits of all sizes. Contact CSI Tech Corp for help selecting the right plan for your organization.
- Can I switch from a Microsoft 365 Business plan to a Nonprofit plan?
Yes, you can switch to a Microsoft 365 Nonprofit plan after verifying your nonprofit status through the Microsoft Nonprofits portal. Need assistance? Our Minnesota-based IT team is here to guide your nonprofit organization every step of the way!
Let’s help your non-profit thrive with technology.
Get Started Today with Office 365 for Nonprofits!