Microsoft's NGO Connection

Microsoft has always participated in gifts-in-kind grants to pedal their software to organizations. This week, they announced the launch of NGO Connection, a resource for nonprofits and NGOs to apply for grants for software and hardware. The site also features information on training and certification and has a few examples of how organizations are using their products. Their "Forums" section is simply a link to boards and services on TechSoup, Devex, and TeleCentre. They have a pretty impressive list of technology partners and a good list of software and hardware products.

Why did Microsoft launch this now? Their press release says the website provides "a convenient and easy one-stop shop for technology resources, knowledge sharing, community building and real-life examples for nonprofit organizations."  The resources for refurbished desktops, laptop, and servers  can be immensely helpful to organizations. The software is good; you could theoretically build a site with their small business and event software. But, with Google's nonprofit resources generating a lot of buzz, it makes one wonder if this is just another Microsoft attack on Google on all fronts. There are a lot of free products already out there, such as OpenOffice, 30Boxes, and Blogger. 

Still, if your organization can apply and get free software, it's always worth it. Getting your IT staff certified will help keep you running better and you can create a nice suite of tools. Microsoft is still the big game in town (as I write this post using IE... occupational hazard). Visit their website and see if their game works for your organization.