Microsoft Program Changes: FAQs
February 26, 2018
Q: Why is Microsoft making these changes?
Microsoft’s goal is to enable even more nonprofit organizations to have an even greater impact. However, it takes a new philanthropy model to sustainably scale software donations in a subscription (or cloud) model.
Microsoft's new Tech for Social Impact team is organized as a social enterprise, where profits will be reinvested into providing more support for nonprofits. You can learn more here.
Q: Is Microsoft changing eligibility requirements for its donated products?
No, eligibility for donated offers through TechSoup remain the same. Microsoft maintains one of the broadest definitions of eligibility of all technology donors. Unfortunately, there are still organization types that would like to request a donation but do not qualify. For these organizations, we hope that other offers on TechSoup may be helpful. Rest assured that we inform all of our donors about who else is eager to find an affordable way to use their products.
Q: Will there be eligibility requirements for the discounted products? If so, will they be the same as for donated products?
At this time, our understanding is that the same eligibility requirements used for donated products will apply to organizations seeking discounted products.
Q: Will libraries continue to be eligible for Microsoft donations and discounts through TechSoup?
Yes, libraries continue to qualify for Microsoft nonprofit donations and discounts, as well as a host of other offers and resources on TechSoup.
Q: Can you explain the change being made to Microsoft “title group” restrictions?
A title group consists of all products that essentially serve the same purpose. For example, all Windows operating system products are in one title group. Currently, eligible organizations can request up to 50 licenses per title group from a maximum of 10 title groups. There are more than 35 title groups, and you can read more about title groups here.
Starting April 1, 2018, eligible organizations can choose among all of the Microsoft donated products without being limited to 10 title groups. Unless otherwise stated, they can request a maximum of 50 licenses of each product within a two-year period. Server products continue to have product specific license limits.
Q: What is the difference between "standard" and "premium" products?
Premium products are usually referred to as "professional" or "enterprise," such as Office Professional or Visio Professional, and standard products are usually referred to as "standard," such as Office Standard or Visio Standard.