Google launches new program for nonprofits

It’s a new day for the nonprofit sector thanks to Google for Nonprofits. Leaders at Google—known by many for its Internet search engine and product offerings such as Gmail and Chrome—announced yesterday that the company will offer exclusive Google resources for US based nonprofits in an effort to support their work and help make positive change in the world.

By using Google’s immense technology resources to support and help advance the philanthropic work of nonprofits, the company simply hopes it can “do some good for the world” as noted by Alfred Spector, VP of Research and Special Initiatives at Google. He added during yesterday’s gathering of representatives from dozens of different nonprofits from across the country that these resources will hopefully help nonprofits “reach more donors, improve operations and raise awareness for their cause.”

“If you work for a nonprofit, this program provides you with several new benefits. Instead of applying to each Google product individually, you can sign up through a one-stop shop application process. If approved, you can access our suite of product offerings designed for nonprofits: up to $10,000 a month in advertising on Google AdWords to reach more donors, free or discounted Google Apps to cut IT costs and operate more efficiently, and premium features for YouTube and our mapping technologies to raise awareness of your cause. We’ve also developed other online resources such as educational videos, case studies and better ways for you to connect with other nonprofits.”

Google representatives also announced yesterday the launch of Google for Nonprofits Marketplace, which helps nonprofits and professional third-party service providers (who have agreed to offer their services at a free or discounted rate) connect. The marketplace fills the need that many nonprofits have struggled with in terms of finding and vetting various vendors and partners.

Groups such as Samasource, Kiva, Direct Relief and the Natural Resources Defense Council are already involved with the program and sharing how they each use Google tools. You can learn how each of these different organizations has benefited from using Google tools through their video case studies.

For more information, visit the Google for Nonprofits page to learn how your organization can expand its impact through Google tools. Qualifying nonprofits can now sign up through a new streamlined application process.