Technology grants for nonprofits: all you need to know

Technology is no longer a luxury for nonprofits — it’s a necessity. But how do you bridge the gap between need and affordability? Enter technology grants. These grants can be game-changers, providing the vital tools and software to enhance your nonprofit’s efficiency and impact.

We’ll break down what technology grants are and where to find them, and we’ll provide some top tips to get you started.

What can a technology grant do for your nonprofit?

Imagine alleviating much of the worry over needing technology to help your nonprofit realize its vision in every aspect. Would that be a dream come true for your nonprofit board?

Technology grants can turn your dreams into reality. They provide a funding source you can use to develop your current technology infrastructure or enhance it. Depending on the technology grant, you may be able to use it to purchase new software or hardware or expand on what you have.

Beyond supporting your current infrastructure, some technology grants support your nonprofit’s mission in other ways, such as providing funds for digital learning or STEM education.

Overall, enhanced technology will bring your nonprofit up to speed with other nonprofits and set you on pace to increase the level of your donations.

As the HHS.gov points out “When it comes to technology grant-making, funders often say ‘Never lead with the technology.’ But at the same time, it is the appropriate application of technology that will determine the successful implementation of a grant.” This highlights the importance of focusing on how technology will be used to achieve the nonprofit’s mission rather than just the technology itself.

When it comes to technology grant-making, funders often say “Never lead with the technology.” – HHS.gov

Where and how to find technology grants

You can start looking for technology grants in the same places as other grants from governments, foundations and corporations. Another good place to find technology grants is following GrantWatch, a national grant listing directory that features tens of thousands of grant opportunities.

Be aware that some grantmakers are not open to inquiries or applications. Certain grantors favor seeking out the types of organizations they choose to fund. That said, many grantors outline an application process that nonprofits must go through before being awarded a technology grant.

GrantWatch is a valuable resource for learning about deadlines and specifications for technology grants and getting the most updated information.

Examples of technology grants for nonprofits

• The Patrick J. McGovern Foundation: The foundation recently dedicated $66.4 million in grants for 148 nonprofits and other organizations that are developing products, platforms and policies to show AI’s potential to serve the greater good.
• Tech Impact: Nonprofits may apply for grants in connection with the Technology Innovation Awards to support advanced technology projects. Grant awards are in the amount of $10,000 in connection with the Technology Innovation Awards grant program.
• Microsoft Nonprofit Tech Acceleration: Nonprofits that focus on underserved communities can access grants, discounts and expertise to increase their technological access.
• Verizon Foundation: Nonprofits with work focused on digital inclusion, climate protection and human prosperity are candidates for a Verizon Foundation grant. Applications are by invitation only, but nonprofits can contact the local community relations manager to inquire about eligibility.
• Cisco — Technology Grant and Global Impact Cash Grant programs: Cisco offers networking technology grants through the Technology Grant Program to help nonprofits improve their productivity, save costs and scale. Cash grants are not intended for technology use. Still, if your nonprofit can prove that technology has a more significant impact beyond everyday operations, you may be able to use a grant for that purpose. The maximum amount granted for first-time recipients is $75,000.
• U.S. General Services Administration — Computers for Learning: This program does not offer funds for technology, but nonprofits may be able to get excess computer equipment from federal agencies to educate children. Recipients must pay for shipping and handling costs.
• Salesforce Foundation: This well-known company offers grants to nonprofits and school districts for workforce-readiness programs for students. Grants are by invitation only. Nonprofits also receive products and other resources either free or at a discounted rate.
• Impact Fund by Twilio.org: This company supports nonprofits with digital transformation to address communication needs. Current grant rounds are by invitation only.
• Mazda Foundation: The Mazda Foundation awards grants to nonprofits located in markets where it has offices, with a focus on causes that support food security, STEM and workforce development. Grants are by invitation only.
• Change Happens Foundation: This family-based foundation focuses on progressive and secular social change with a specific interest in environmental science, education and human services. They accept grant applications on a rolling basis.
• The Westinghouse Charitable Giving Program: Nonprofits interested in improving STEM area knowledge and literacy in children and others may qualify for a technology grant with Westinghouse. Grants may also be awarded to nonprofits that need to advance technology to enhance green initiatives.

Of all the types of grants you can apply for, have you considered how a technology grant can boost every other process and operation in your nonprofit? Plenty of technology grants are available but be advised that there is much competition for them.

Before applying for a technology grant, research the guidelines and make sure your organization qualifies for them. Read the terms and conditions of each grant carefully and be sure to meet the parameters.

Using your board management solution for grant pursuits

A board management tool like BoardEffect is well-suited to managing grant-funding efforts in a number of key ways:

• The document library is a centralized, searchable, organized repository for application and supporting documents. After receiving a grant, nonprofit staff can collect materials required for reporting to the granting organization.
• Project and approval workflows allow numerous contributors to play a role in the development of the grant materials.
• Secure workrooms create a place for teams to discuss and collaborate on grant-seeking efforts.

A technology grant may not cover your goals fully, but it may help take your nonprofit to the next level of efficiency. BoardEffect is a powerful tool to support your grant-seeking efforts as well as all the board’s and staff’s work in fulfilling your mission.