Google for Nonprofits in Scotland launches offering charities access to a suite of premium services and monthly $10,000 advertising grants
Google has today launched Google for Nonprofits in Scotland giving charities north of the border access to a suite of premium Google services for free to help them improve their reach and work more effectively and efficiently.
The internet giant launched the programme in Scotland in partnership with Technology Trust, the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and TechSoup Global at a digital training day for around 100 charities at Mansfield Traquair in Edinburgh.
Any organisation with a Scottish charity number can apply to join the programme and once approved will get free access to Google Apps to cut IT costs and operate more efficiently, up to $10,000 a month (approx. £6,500) in advertising credit on Google AdWords to reach more donors and premium features on YouTube to raise awareness for their cause.
Stuart Mclaughlin, GooglersGive manager, told the audience that Scottish charities can particularly benefit from the programme due to the freshness of the political system in Scotland and the role the third sector plays in addressing society’s needs in Scotland.
He said: “We see the impact every day of nonprofits embracing the web - it’s truly transforming the way they work.
We’re inspired by the amazing ways nonprofits are making the world a better place, and look forward to supporting the work of more nonprofits in Scotland
Stuart McLaughlin
“We’re inspired by the amazing ways nonprofits are making the world a better place, and look forward to supporting the work of more nonprofits in Scotland.”
Google has also developed online resources such as educational videos, case studies and other ways to connect with other nonprofits.
These include information on how to improve your web and social media presence and how to use internet ads to drive awareness and donations.
Technology Trust chief executive, Richard Craig, said: “Without time or money to invest, charities may miss out on the advantages that web analytics, online communications, or even a YouTube page can offer them.
“We are pleased to be partnering with Google UK to deliver the Google for Nonprofits programme in Scotland, and look forward to working with SCVO to provide charities with the information and technologies they need to take full advantage of the online world.”
Chris Yiu, director of Digital Participation at SCVO, added: "The latest research shows that half of charities in Scotland don't have the basic digital skills they need to get things done online.
“We're doing everything we can to help Scottish charities thrive in the digital world, and thanks to initiatives like Google for Nonprofits it's now easier than ever to make the internet work for your charity.
“It really will help to breakdown the financial and technical barriers to charities making the most of online platforms to connect with their supporters, the people they work with and each other.”
