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How Nonprofits Can Obtain Free Microsoft 365 E1 Licenses
Question details
Nonprofit organizations need guidance on applying for the Microsoft 365 E1 grant and understanding if an Enterprise Agreement is required.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- A nonprofit organization wants to obtain granted Office 365 E1 licenses following the discontinuation of the E2 plan.
- Observed behavior
- The organization needs to confirm its eligibility, find current offers in the Microsoft Nonprofit Hub, and determine the correct application process.
Ensure your organization is legally recognized as a nonprofit or non-governmental organization in your country, as official documentation will be required for verification.
Verify Eligibility and Apply via the Microsoft Nonprofit Hub
The standard method for securing nonprofit grants is registering and verifying your organization through Microsoft's dedicated nonprofit portal.
Microsoft requires all organizations to undergo a verification process to ensure they meet the legal requirements for nonprofit status before granting access to discounted or donated licenses like the E1 plan.
Navigate to the official Microsoft Nonprofits website and click on 'Get Started' or 'Register' to begin the eligibility process.
Provide your organization's legal documentation and proof of nonprofit status as requested. The verification process is handled by Microsoft's partners and can take up to 20 business days.
Once your nonprofit status is approved, log into the Microsoft 365 admin center using your administrator credentials.
Navigate to 'Billing', select 'Purchase services', and locate the nonprofit offers section. Select the Microsoft 365 E1 donation offer and proceed to assign the licenses to your staff.
Consult an Authorized Microsoft Nonprofit Partner
If your organization requires an Enterprise Agreement or needs assistance navigating complex licensing requirements, an authorized partner can manage the request.
Empower Your Nonprofit with WPS Office for Free
If your organization is waiting for Microsoft 365 nonprofit approval or simply looking to reduce overhead costs, WPS Office provides a powerful, free alternative. Enjoy full compatibility with major office formats and a lightweight design that runs smoothly on older hardware.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS website and download the free version for your operating system.
- 2. Install and launch: Run the installer and open WPS Office. You can immediately start creating documents without a complex setup.
- 3. Open existing files: Simply double-click your existing Microsoft Office files to open and edit them seamlessly in WPS Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Microsoft 365 E2 plan still available for nonprofits?
No, the Office 365 E2 plan was discontinued. Microsoft now offers the Office 365 E1 grant for eligible nonprofits, which provides similar web-based applications and services.
Do I need an Enterprise Agreement to get the Office 365 E1 grant?
An Enterprise Agreement is typically only required if your organization needs to deploy a very large number of licenses (such as the 2,000 license grant). For smaller deployments, direct registration via the Microsoft Nonprofit Hub is usually sufficient.
How long does it take for Microsoft to approve a nonprofit application?
The verification process for nonprofit eligibility can take up to 20 business days, depending on your region and the legal documentation provided.
Are desktop versions of Office apps included in the E1 grant?
No, the Microsoft 365 E1 grant primarily includes web and mobile versions of the Office applications. If your staff requires desktop apps, you will need a different plan like Microsoft 365 Business Premium, or a free desktop alternative like WPS Office.
