What does Google offer nonprofits?
Google offers eligible nonprofits access to Google Workspace through its Google for Nonprofits program, either at no cost or at reduced prices. The program can include a no-cost option with the core apps and discounted access to editions with more storage and features. The exact editions, limits, and prices are set by Google and change from time to time.
Because the details shift, we do not quote nonprofit pricing in our guides. Confirm current eligibility and pricing with Google for Nonprofits before you build a budget. For how the standard editions compare, which helps you judge what a nonprofit offer includes, see the Google Workspace plans and licensing guide.
Is your organization eligible?
Eligibility generally depends on your legal status and country, and Google verifies it before approval. In broad terms, Google looks for:
- Recognized charitable or nonprofit status in a country where the program is offered.
- Agreement to the program's terms, including rules on discrimination and how the products are used.
- Successful verification of your organization's details.
Programs and rules can also differ by country, so a nonprofit with offices in more than one country should check each location.
Some types of organizations are handled differently. Schools and universities use Google Workspace for Education, which is a separate program. Government bodies are generally not eligible. Check Google for Nonprofits for the current list of eligible countries and excluded organization types, because these rules are Google's to set.
How do you apply?
You apply through Google for Nonprofits, then activate Google Workspace for your domain once you are approved. The general steps are:
- Gather your registration details and proof of nonprofit status.
- Create a Google for Nonprofits account and submit your application.
- Complete Google's verification process.
- Once approved, activate Google Workspace for your domain.
- Choose the edition that fits your needs, using the options Google offers you.
Verification can take time, so apply before you set a migration date. Keep the domain you plan to use and an administrator contact ready, because you will need both to activate the account. Use an organizational email address for the application rather than a personal one, so access does not depend on one person.
If you already pay for Google Workspace, ask Google for Nonprofits how an approved application changes your existing subscription.
How should a nonprofit plan its migration?
A nonprofit plans its migration the same way any organization does, with extra attention to who really needs an account. Nonprofits often have staff, board members, and volunteers with very different needs. A few habits help:
- Give full accounts to people who need ongoing email and file access.
- Use Google Groups for shared addresses like info@ or donations@, which do not need licenses.
- Share specific folders with occasional volunteers instead of creating accounts for everyone.
- Review accounts each season as volunteers come and go.
Our guide to right-sizing your licenses gives a simple review process, and the Google Workspace migration checklist covers the steps for the move itself. Even with no-cost licenses, migration services are a separate cost. See what drives the cost of a migration to budget for it. If you end up on a paid edition, Google Workspace pricing, explained shows the standard rates.
Next step
Once your eligibility is confirmed with Google for Nonprofits, visit Google Workspace licensing or contact us to plan your migration.
Frequently asked questions
Can volunteers get Google Workspace accounts?
Yes, you can create accounts for volunteers, but each one counts as a user. Give accounts to volunteers who need ongoing access to email or shared files. For occasional helpers, sharing specific files or adding them to a Google Group may be enough.
Can we start on a paid plan while our nonprofit application is reviewed?
In many cases, yes. You can start on a standard paid edition and apply for the nonprofit program while you work. Ask Google for Nonprofits how an approval would change your existing subscription, so you do not pay standard rates longer than you need to.
