Microsoft 365 & Google Workspace for Canadian non-profits: what's free and how to secure it

Microsoft and Google both run programs that give eligible Canadian non-profits and registered charities free or discounted Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace plans. What's included and who qualifies changes over time, so confirm current eligibility on Microsoft's and Google's non-profit pages before you apply. The free plans don't switch on every security protection you need by default. We recommend turning on multi-factor authentication, adding email filtering and keeping independent backups, which a managed provider like WILDCARD MSP can handle for you.

Key takeaways

• Microsoft and Google both offer free or discounted plans to eligible Canadian non-profits; check current eligibility before you apply.
• The free plans don't switch on every security protection by default.
• Email filtering, multi-factor authentication and independent backups protect non-profits from phishing, account takeover and data loss.
• Patch Management makes sure every device receives security fixes within 30 days, closing known vulnerabilities automatically.

What free tools do Canadian non-profits get?

Canadian non-profits can access two major productivity suites at no cost or at a discount through the providers' non-profit programs. Google Workspace for Nonprofits gives eligible organizations Google's collaboration tools: Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets and Meet. Microsoft 365 for nonprofits gives eligible organizations Microsoft's familiar tools: Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, OneDrive and SharePoint. Both programs check your organization's status before granting access.

How does Google for Nonprofits work in Canada?

Google for Nonprofits gives eligible organizations access to Google products and discounts. These tools help with the challenges non-profits face every day: finding new donors and volunteers, working more efficiently and getting supporters to take action. Check Google's non-profit page for the current eligibility rules in Canada.

What does Microsoft offer Canadian non-profits for free?

Microsoft provides grants and discounts for eligible non-profits. Organizations generally need to operate on a not-for-profit basis with a mission that benefits the community, such as relieving poverty, advancing education, improving social welfare, preserving culture or protecting the environment. Check Microsoft's non-profit page for the current offer.

How do Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace compare?

Both platforms include email, file storage and video meetings. The right choice depends on how your team already works.

Which platform is easier for non-technical staff to learn?

Google Workspace is browser-first. Documents, spreadsheets and meetings live in one web environment, and staff who like real-time co-editing usually adapt quickly. Microsoft 365 centres on familiar desktop applications like Word, Excel and Outlook, so teams used to traditional office software often find the move smoother.

What are the key differences in how teams work together?

Google Workspace treats every file as a live, shared document by default, so several people can edit at once. Microsoft 365 supports co-authoring too, though the experience differs between the desktop and web versions.

What security settings should every non-profit turn on?

A few settings block the most common ways attackers get in. Without them, a single compromised inbox or unpatched laptop can expose donor data, financial records and client information.

How do you turn on multi-factor authentication?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) asks for a second proof, usually a code or a tap on your phone, on top of a password. Both Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace include it at no extra cost. Turn it on for every account, starting with administrators and the Executive Director. Use an authenticator app rather than text-message codes where you can, and give volunteers a short how-to so nobody gets locked out.

Why does email filtering matter for a small non-profit?

Email is still the main way phishing and malware get in. CORE's Email Security stops spam, phishing attempts and malicious attachments before they reach anyone's inbox. Because filtering happens before delivery, staff never see most dangerous messages, and a tired team member is less likely to click a convincing fake invoice.

What watches your organization's digital footprint?

Threats don't stop at the inbox. CORE's Identity Monitor watches your organization's identity, website, domain and the dark web for threats 24/7. If staff credentials turn up in a breach, you hear about it early, which shrinks the window an attacker has to use stolen information.

How do unpatched devices create risk?

Every piece of software has weaknesses that vendors fix through updates. CORE's Patch Management makes sure every device receives those fixes within 30 days, automatically. Consistent, enforced updates close known gaps before attackers can use them.

What about backups?

Microsoft and Google keep their services running, but they don't keep independent backups of your data. CORE's Unified Backups back up email, workspace and drives automatically, plus device-level backups. CORE includes Email Security, Identity Monitor, Patch Management and three other protections for $23 per user + $26 per device = $49 per seat per month, before applicable taxes. See how we support non-profits.

FAQ

What free productivity tools do Canadian non-profits get from Microsoft and Google?

Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace both offer free or discounted plans to eligible Canadian non-profits and registered charities. Check current eligibility on their non-profit pages.

Do the free plans include all the security we need?

Not by default. Turn on multi-factor authentication, add email filtering and keep independent backups to protect donor data.

How can a non-profit secure its free Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace?

Start with MFA on every account, then add email filtering, identity monitoring, patching and independent backups, either yourselves or through a managed provider like WILDCARD MSP.

Conclusion

The free plans from Microsoft and Google give your non-profit powerful tools, but they leave key protections switched off. Turn on multi-factor authentication, add email filtering and identity monitoring, keep devices patched and keep independent backups. That's how we Make IT Disappear: your team stays productive and your donor data stays protected.

Start with the free Domain Security Scan, or call us at 1-888-274-3530.