How to Install Microsoft 365 Desktop Apps and Publisher for Nonprofits
Question details
Nonprofit users need to install desktop versions of Word, Excel, and Microsoft Publisher, but currently only have access to the online web apps.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Upgrading a nonprofit Microsoft 365 plan to include desktop application licenses.
- Observed behavior
- Users only have access to web versions of Word and Excel. The option to upgrade in the admin center may be disabled or greyed out.
Ensure you have global administrator or billing administrator privileges in your Microsoft 365 Admin Center before attempting to upgrade your nonprofit subscription.
Upgrade Plan in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center
Check if your current nonprofit subscription allows for an automated upgrade to a plan that includes desktop apps.
Upgrading to a premium tier will grant users full access to downloadable desktop applications like Word, Excel, and Publisher.
Go to the Microsoft 365 admin center and log in with your administrator credentials.
Click on the 'Billing' section in the left sidebar and select 'Your products' to view your current nonprofit subscription.
Look for the 'Upgrade' button or link associated with your current plan and select a new plan that includes downloadable desktop apps (like Microsoft 365 Business Standard).
Purchase One-Time Licenses or Request Manual Change
If the Upgrade option is disabled or greyed out, you may need to manually switch plans or buy standalone licenses.
Save Nonprofit Funds with WPS Office
If upgrading your Microsoft 365 subscription for desktop apps is too expensive or complicated, WPS Office provides a powerful, free desktop alternative. It fully supports Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats, ensuring your nonprofit team can work seamlessly without the high recurring license costs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free desktop application.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to set up WPS Office on your computer.
- 3. Open Office Documents: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files directly without any formatting loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the upgrade button greyed out in my Microsoft 365 Admin Center?
The upgrade option may be disabled if your current nonprofit subscription does not support automated upgrades to the target plan, or if there is a billing issue preventing the change. You may need to purchase new licenses manually under 'Purchase services'.
Can I get Microsoft Publisher for free with my nonprofit account?
Microsoft Publisher is usually not included in the basic free nonprofit tier (Microsoft 365 Business Basic or Web-only plans). You must purchase a plan that includes premium desktop apps, such as Microsoft 365 Business Standard, or buy a standalone Office Professional license.
Do I have to upgrade all users in my nonprofit organization to get desktop apps?
No, you can mix and match plans. You can keep the free web-only licenses for most staff and only purchase a few premium desktop licenses (which include Word, Excel, and Publisher) for the users who specifically need them.
