Before You Decide
Questions nonprofits usually ask before deciding
These are the practical questions most organizations want answered before choosing the setup
service or the DIY guide.
How long does this process usually take?
It depends on your starting point and which programs you pursue first. If documents, domain
email, and website basics are already in place, the early setup can move quickly. Common
requirements usually include your IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter, an organization email on
your own domain, a live website with a clear mission, Goodstack and TechSoup registration, and
a DUNS number for programs that require it. Some verification steps still take days, and some
providers review applications manually.
What do we need before we start?
Most nonprofits should have their IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter ready, a valid
organization email on their own domain, a live website with a clear mission, and any required
organizational details such as EIN and DUNS where applicable.
Are all nonprofits eligible for every program?
No. Each provider sets its own rules. U.S. 501(c)(3) public charities often qualify for many
of the programs, but exclusions are common for schools, government entities, hospitals, and
fiscally sponsored groups without independent status. Religious organizations may qualify for
many benefits, but not every program treats them the same, so eligibility has to be checked
provider by provider.
Do you guarantee approval?
No. No one can guarantee approval because every provider makes its own eligibility and review
decision. What we do help with is reducing wasted time, getting the prerequisites right,
improving the process, and making sure your team pursues the most relevant opportunities in the
right order. For the done-for-you setup package, if your organization is not eligible for at
least one benefit, we will refund 100% of the setup package fee.
What if we only qualify for one or two programs?
That can still be worthwhile. In many cases, one meaningful benefit can recover the cost of the
service by itself. The goal is to capture the most valuable programs your organization is
realistically eligible for, not to force all 15.
What is the difference between the done-for-you setup service and the DIY guide?
The done-for-you setup service is for teams that want help moving through the process faster
and more efficiently. The DIY guide is for organizations that prefer to do the work internally
but want a structured reference instead of starting from scratch.
Can we start with the guide and upgrade later?
Yes. If you want to start internally and then decide you need hands-on help, that is a
reasonable path. The guide is for self-service; the setup offer is for teams that want more of
the process handled with support.
Which programs usually matter most first?
That depends on the nonprofit, but high-value programs like Google Ad Grants, Microsoft
nonprofit benefits, Salesforce, Canva, and other core operational tools are usually the first
ones worth prioritizing when eligibility is likely.