Charities across the UK are rethinking their digital tools after Microsoft announced big changes to its nonprofit licences. With the free Business Premium package gone, many are asking whether it’s time to switch to Google Workspace instead. The real question isn’t about brand loyalty, it’s about which platform delivers the right mix of collaboration and security for your organisation.
Let’s Break It Down.
Microsoft has made a big change to its nonprofit offering. Charities will no longer receive 10 free Business Premium licences as part of their grant package. Understandably, this has sparked questions across the sector: is now the time to move away from Microsoft? And is Google Workspace a better option?
We’re not here to judge Microsoft’s decision. What matters more is this: what’s actually available to charities now and how secure is it?
That’s the priority. Security first, always.
What Do You Get for Free?
With Microsoft 365 for charities now offering a reduced package, its free tier looks much more like what Google offers. Both give access to cloud email, file storage, calendars, and collaboration tools the basics for keeping your teams connected.
Microsoft still includes SharePoint and Azure credits, which many charities rely on. Google, on the other hand, offers its Ads Grant a valuable tool for driving awareness and donations online.
It comes down to what tools your charity depends on most.
Security: Where the Real Differences Appear
Here’s the key thing. If your organisation needs robust cybersecurity and most do, then the free versions won’t cut it. You’ll need to invest a little to get the level of protection modern charities require.
Did you know? Microsoft reports that enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) blocks over 99.9% of account compromise attempts. That’s why stepping up security is non-negotiable for charities handling sensitive data.
We recommend two standout options:
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium – approx. £4.20 per user/month + VAT
- Google Workspace Business Plus (Nonprofit pricing) – also around £4.20 per user/month + VAT
Both plans offer essentials like phishing protection, mobile device management, and admin controls. But for charities using Windows devices, Microsoft pulls ahead and it’s not just because of familiarity.
Why Defender for Endpoint is a Game-Changer
Microsoft Defender XDR (formerly Defender for Endpoint) offers a significant advantage. At Cosmic, we’ve seen firsthand how it helps block ransomware, flag vulnerabilities, and secure devices in real time. For charities handling sensitive data or working remotely, it’s a powerful tool.
Proven protection: Microsoft Defender is ranked a Leader in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection and holds the largest global market share in endpoint security (IDC, 2024).
Microsoft’s strength here lies in how tightly its tools integrate with Windows. It’s a level of control and visibility that Google just can’t offer on Windows devices.
But What If You’re Using Chromebooks or Android Devices?
Not every organisation runs on Windows and that’s where Google shines. If your charity uses Chromebooks, Android phones, or Google Cloud tools day-to-day, then Google Workspace for nonprofits might suit you better.
Their cloud-first approach to device and identity management is strong, particularly in the Google ecosystem.
So, Should You Make the Switch?
If your charity runs primarily on Windows, Microsoft 365 Business Premium remains our top pick. It’s excellent value, offers top-tier security, and continues to support collaboration at scale for organisations under 300 users.
But if you’ve shifted to Google-based devices and workflows, it might be time to consider making the move. In those environments, Google Workspace is well worth exploring even if we’ll always argue SharePoint gives Google Drive a run for its money.
Choosing What’s Right for Your Charity
There’s no blanket answer. It depends on your existing setup, your budget, and your approach to cybersecurity. These aren’t decisions to rush but they are decisions worth making with clarity and support.
Nonprofit bonus: Eligible charities can access up to 10 free Defender for Endpoint licences through Microsoft’s nonprofit programme — giving advanced security without the extra cost.
Do you need to chat it over with someone? We’re here to help. Whether it’s weighing up cloud platforms or locking down your charity’s cybersecurity, we can guide you through it.