Nonprofit IT Strategy Checklist
Comprehensive Tech Guide for NPOs (2026 Edition)
Use this comprehensive checklist to audit your organisation's technology stack. This guide focuses on maximising available grants, securing donor data, and ensuring operational continuity without breaking the budget.
1. Qualification & Grants (Don't Leave Money on the Table)
Before spending a cent on software, ensure you have claimed every grant you are entitled to.
Microsoft 365 Business Basic (300 Free Seats)For volunteers and part-time staff. Includes web-based Word/Excel, 1TB OneDrive, and Teams.
Google Ad Grants ($10,000/month)Setup a Google Ads account to drive traffic to your donation page. This is separate from your email hosting.
2. Security & Compliance (Protect Donor Trust)
Enforce MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication)Mandatory for every single account. Use "Conditional Access" policies to block logins from countries you don't operate in.
Device Encryption (BitLocker)Laptops are high-theft items. Enable BitLocker so that a stolen laptop is just a hardware loss, not a POPIA data breach.
Cloud-to-Cloud BackupMicrosoft/Google do NOT backup your data against accidental deletion or ransomware. Use a tool like SkyKick or AvePoint to backup emails and documents.
3. Operational Efficiency
Centralised File StorageMove files off desktops/USB sticks and into SharePoint/Google Drive. Establish a "Single Source of Truth".
Device Management (Intune)Use Microsoft Intune to wipe company data from a staff member's personal phone when they leave the organisation.
Legal Disclaimer: This checklist is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. AMEA Technologies (Pty) Ltd makes no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the completeness, accuracy, or suitability of this information. Grant availability and eligibility requirements are determined by individual vendors and may change. Any reliance you place on this content is strictly at your own risk. We accept no liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of this checklist. You are advised to consult qualified IT professionals before implementing any recommendations.