Are You a Nonprofit? Google Tools Can Help!
Applying for Google for Nonprofits: A Guide for Clover Chamber of Commerce Members
As a member of the Clover Chamber of Commerce, your organization may be looking for ways to enhance productivity, reach more supporters, and amplify your impact without straining your budget. Google for Nonprofits is an excellent program designed to provide eligible charitable organizations with free or discounted access to powerful Google tools. These include Google Workspace for streamlined collaboration, Google Ad Grants for up to $10,000 per month in free advertising, the YouTube Nonprofit Program for enhanced video features, and Google Maps Platform credits for mapping solutions.
This article will walk you through the application process, eligibility requirements, and include a section of frequently asked questions to help you get started.
What is Google for Nonprofits?
Google for Nonprofits is a program that equips verified nonprofit organizations with digital tools to help them operate more efficiently, connect with donors and volunteers, and share their stories effectively. Available in over 65 countries, it addresses common challenges faced by nonprofits, such as fundraising, team collaboration, and online visibility. For organizations in the United States, like many in the Clover area, this can be a game-changer, offering resources that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive.
Key benefits include:
- Google Workspace for Nonprofits: Cloud-based productivity tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Drive with 30GB of storage per user, plus video meetings and collaboration features—all at no cost for basic plans, or discounted for advanced editions.
- Google Ad Grants: Free advertising credits to promote your cause on Google Search, helping drive traffic to your website for donations, volunteer sign-ups, and more.
- YouTube Nonprofit Program: Tools to engage supporters through video, including custom thumbnails, live streaming, and donation cards.
- Google Maps Platform Credits: Up to $2,000 in annual credits for mapping APIs to visualize impact or locate services.
By leveraging these tools, Clover nonprofits can boost their online presence and operational efficiency, ultimately advancing their missions in our community.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure your organization meets the criteria. Google for Nonprofits is geared toward charitable nonprofits, but not all types qualify. For U.S.-based organizations:
- Your organization must be registered with the IRS as exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, or be a group-exempt organization affiliated with a central 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
- You must be verified as a nonprofit by Google's validation partner, Percent (formerly Goodstack).
- Agree to the Google for Nonprofits Additional Terms of Service.
Ineligible organizations include:
- Governmental entities or organizations.
- Hospitals or healthcare organizations (though charitable arms or foundations associated with them may qualify).
- Schools, academic institutions, or universities (philanthropic arms may be eligible; check Google for Education for alternatives).
- Fiscally sponsored organizations without their own 501(c)(3) status.
If your organization is part of a group exemption (e.g., a local chapter of a national nonprofit), provide the parent organization's EIN during signup, and ensure public documents verify your affiliation. Review the full eligibility guidelines on Google's site to confirm.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
Applying is straightforward and done online. Follow these five steps to get started:
- Review Eligibility: Double-check that your organization meets the requirements outlined above.
- Request an Account: Go to google.com/nonprofits and click "Get Started" in the top right corner. Sign in with a Google Account (or create one) that will serve as the administrator. Provide your organization's details, including name, EIN, website, and contact information. If your organization already has an account, you can request access instead.
- Verification Process: Google's partner, Percent, will review your submission. This typically takes 3-5 business days, though it can be 2-14 days in some cases. They may contact you for additional documentation, such as proof of 501(c)(3) status or affiliation documents. You'll receive an email notification once verified.
- Activate Products: After approval, sign in to your Google for Nonprofits account. Navigate to the products page and activate each tool individually (e.g., apply for Google Ad Grants or set up Google Workspace). Each may have its own review process, taking a few days.
- Maximize Your Account: Explore resources like tutorials, help centers, and newsletters to make the most of the tools. For example, book appointments with advisors for Google Workspace setup if needed.
Tip: If your request is denied, review the eligibility issues and resubmit with corrections. Track your status by logging into the account portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about Google for Nonprofits, based on official resources:
What types of organizations are eligible?
Nonprofit charitable organizations in good standing, verified by Percent. In the U.S., this means 501(c)(3) status. Government entities, hospitals, schools, and fiscally sponsored groups without their own status are not eligible.
How long does the verification process take?
Generally 3-5 business days, but it can extend to 2-14 days if additional information is needed.
What if my organization is part of a group exemption?
You may qualify if you provide the parent organization's EIN and public documents verify your affiliation. Start a new application if needed.
What products are available, and in which countries?
Products include Google Workspace, Ad Grants, YouTube Nonprofit Program, and Maps credits. Availability varies by country; check the product chart on Google's site for details (available in 65+ countries).
Who is Percent, and what do they do?
Percent is Google's validation partner that verifies organizations as legally registered nonprofits or social benefit entities.
My organization was deemed ineligible—what now?
Review the eligibility guidelines and address any issues (e.g., provide missing documents) before resubmitting.
How do I request access to an existing account?
If your organization already has an account, go to google.com/nonprofits, click "Get Started," and follow the steps to request administrative access.
Where can I find more help?
Visit the Google for Nonprofits Help Center for tutorials, troubleshooting, and product-specific support.
