TL;DR: Technology grants for nonprofits fund hardware, software, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure that organizations otherwise cannot afford. Funders like TechSoup, NTEN, and corporate programs offer millions annually. This guide walks through eligibility requirements, top grant sources, application best practices, and how to align technology needs with funder priorities.
For many nonprofit organizations, access to modern technology can be the key to unlocking greater impact. Whether it’s upgrading infrastructure, boosting online fundraising, or streamlining communications, technology supports nonprofits in achieving their missions more efficiently, while also helping them address basic needs and improve overall well-being in the communities they serve.
In 2025, several grants for technology in nonprofits are opening new doors for digital transformation, donor engagement, and service delivery. Let’s explore five promising technology grants that eligible nonprofits should consider this year. These grants are designed to support diverse needs, including access to advanced cloud services, development of innovative messaging platforms, and other technological advancements that can drive growth and innovation.
5 Technology grants for nonprofit organizations
The following opportunities include a wide variety of funding options for nonprofit organizations, targeting key areas such as education, health, and community development, and ranging from corporate grants provided by major companies to awards offered by technology leaders. Grant funds from these sources can be used for specific projects or broader organizational needs.
AWS Imagine Grant program
Amazon Web Services (AWS) continues to support nonprofits through its AWS Imagine Grant, a program dedicated to fostering innovation through technology. The AWS Imagine Grant offers nonprofits a chance to secure funding and AWS credits to accelerate their digital transformation.
Key features:
- Has three distinct award categories:
- The Pathfinder – Generative AI award recognizes innovative uses of artificial intelligence, supporting new ideas and innovative solutions that drive progress in the nonprofit sector.
- The Momentum to Modernize award focuses on modernization and optimization efforts.
- The Go Further, Faster award is geared toward organizations looking to expand their capabilities quickly.
- Includes AWS marketing promotion credits, technical support, and marketing resources to improve their operations, reach new audiences, and increase their impact
- Focuses on projects leveraging machine learning, donor management, or other advanced technologies
Eligibility requirements:
Eligible organizations must be US-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and projects should demonstrate how AWS solutions can improve the nonprofit’s efficiency and service delivery.
Whether your organization is developing new applications or expanding existing technology, this grant provides funding and support needed to excel in today’s digital landscape, encouraging measurable impact through technology-driven projects.
Google Ad Grants
If your nonprofit relies heavily on digital outreach, Google Ad Grants can boost your visibility without draining your annual operating budget. Google offers nonprofits $10,000 per month in in-kind advertising on Google Search. Google Ads and Google Maps are valuable tools for expanding outreach and engaging supporters, helping nonprofits connect with broader audiences and showcase their impact.
Why it matters:
- Promotes donor engagement and online fundraising
- Increases website traffic and awareness for your nonprofit’s mission
- Integrates well with existing donor management systems
To be eligible, your organization must possess valid charity status—only eligible nonprofit organizations can apply—maintain an active and functional website, and comply with Google’s policies. This grant doesn’t involve a cash award but provides valuable marketing promotion to empower nonprofit organizations to reach their audiences.
Verizon Foundation grants
Verizon is another major player offering corporate grants that support nonprofit technology adoption. Their 2025 funding priorities include workforce development, teacher training, and digital inclusion, especially in underserved communities.
Grant highlights:
- Focuses on education grants and community programs
- Supports communications technology, such as SMS and messaging platforms
- Emphasizes partnerships with school districts and local governments
- Provides funding for networking and communications technology infrastructure for nonprofits
A Verizon grant offers nonprofits more than just financial support; it provides access to a wealth of valuable resources from the company’s extensive network, helping organizations achieve greater cost efficiency through optimized use of technology and funding. Additionally, Verizon works closely with a local community relations manager, making it easier for organizations to align their proposals with local priorities. Verizon’s programs also support job seekers through workforce development initiatives.
Verizon encourages employee giving as part of its commitment to community support.
TechSoup technology grants
TechSoup acts as a bridge between tech companies and eligible nonprofits, offering software licenses, discounted hardware, and technology consulting through foundation grants and corporate partnerships.
Notable features:
- Offers nonprofit grants from companies such as Microsoft, Adobe, and Cisco
- Helps nonprofits build technology infrastructure with limited budgets
- Includes training programs to guide technology adoption journeys
- Provides nonprofits with donated software to improve efficiency and impact
By creating an account on TechSoup, nonprofits can browse grant databases, view eligibility requirements, and access a variety of technological solutions. TechSoup also provides nonprofits with other resources such as training and consulting to support their operations and growth. TechSoup is a go-to resource for finding the right technology grant based on your organization’s size, goals, and sector.
TechSoup supports the innovative use of technology in the nonprofit sector, empowering organizations to address challenges with creative solutions.
Global Generative AI Award
A relatively new entrant into the world of technology grants for nonprofits, the Global Generative AI Award recognizes organizations using AI tools to improve efficiency and solve complex problems. It encompasses many categories, including the Social and Environmental Impact Award. This award is open to nonprofits, social enterprises, and other organizations committed to driving significant social or environmental change, including those supporting projects that benefit young people.
What it funds:
- Projects using generative AI to enhance service delivery, donor engagement, or communications
- Initiatives that support climate protection, human prosperity, or economic empowerment
- Projects addressing climate impact and public health through innovative AI-driven solutions
Backed by a consortium of government agencies, other nonprofits, and corporate sponsors, this award provides both cash grants and access to specialized AI tools. With a growing interest in digital transformation across the nonprofit sector, the Generative AI Award is positioned to reshape the entire industry and help organizations realize significant gains in their mission areas.
How to find nonprofit grants and prepare strong grant applications
Getting grant funding shouldn’t be a guessing game. To maximize your chances of success in receiving technology grants, it’s crucial to understand how to find grants and craft compelling grant proposals. Here are a few tips to keep in mind during the application process:
- Use grant databases: Tools such as TechSoup, GrantStation, and Candid.org help nonprofits find grants aligned with their mission, including nonprofit grants from major funders such as the Gates Foundation, Ford Foundation, and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
- Build relationships: A conversation with a local community relations manager or program officer can provide insight into funders’ priorities, and many programs enable partners to achieve their goals through collaboration and resource sharing.
- Clarify your impact: Demonstrate how your nonprofit organization’s mission aligns with the grantor’s goals, and show significant gains and measurable outcomes achieved through previous or proposed initiatives.
- Emphasize eligibility and outcomes: Clearly state how your organization meets eligibility requirements and outline measurable project outcomes, highlighting how qualifying nonprofit organizations—including both small and large organizations—can apply for financial aid and technology grants.
Nonprofit organizations that take the time to align their grant applications with funders’ values and show the impact of proposed eligible projects tend to perform better during grant applications and proposal submissions. The Cisco Technology Grant Program, for example, supports nonprofits in leveraging their own technology to build healthy communities, demonstrating how targeted programs can empower organizations to achieve meaningful results.
Ready to gain access to the right technology opportunities?
Scottship Solutions’ expert consulting services help empower nonprofits like yours by connecting them with grant opportunities that align perfectly with their mission and objectives. Additionally, we offer tailored nonprofit technology solutions to optimize your operations, improve your infrastructure, and implement innovative tools that help your organization make a greater impact.
Sign up with Scottship Solutions today to boost your tech capabilities and empower your nonprofit for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are technology grants for nonprofits?
Technology grants provide funding specifically for nonprofits to acquire, upgrade, or implement technology solutions. This includes hardware, software, cloud services, cybersecurity tools, website development, and IT infrastructure. Sources range from corporate programs (like AWS and Google) to private foundations and government agencies. Unlike general operating grants, tech grants usually require you to describe a specific technology need and how it connects to your mission outcomes.
Can small nonprofits with limited budgets qualify for technology grants?
Yes. Many technology grant programs specifically target smaller organizations. Google Ad Grants provides $10,000 per month in free advertising to qualifying 501(c)(3) organizations regardless of size. TechSoup offers discounted and donated software to nonprofits of all sizes. The key is demonstrating clear need and a realistic plan for using the technology. Small organizations often have an advantage because funders can see the direct impact of their investment.
How do I write a strong technology grant application?
Start with the problem, not the technology. Explain what your organization is trying to accomplish and why current tools fall short. Then connect the requested technology to specific, measurable outcomes. Include a realistic budget, an implementation timeline, and a plan for training staff. Funders want to know the technology will actually get used, so describe who will manage it and how you will sustain it after the grant period ends.
What is the Google Ad Grant and how do nonprofits apply?
Google Ad Grants gives eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits up to $10,000 per month in Google Search advertising. You apply through Google for Nonprofits, which requires verifying your organization through TechSoup. Once approved, you create text-based search ads that appear when people search for terms related to your mission. The catch: you need to maintain the account actively, keep a 5% click-through rate, and follow Google advertising policies or risk suspension.
Are there technology grants available for nonprofits outside the United States?
Yes. Several major programs operate globally. TechSoup has partners in over 230 countries. AWS Imagine Grant is open to nonprofits worldwide. The Global Generative AI Award specifically targets organizations using AI for social impact across any geography. Many country-specific programs also exist through local foundations and government agencies. Check eligibility requirements carefully, as each program defines qualifying organizations differently.