Microsoft and NPower: Good together, good for the sector

We're so excited to have Microsoft on board as a lead sponsor for our upcoming Techtacular event (save the date: May 17 at Showbox SoDo!). Microsoft has been partnering with NPower for over ten years. Learn more about their commitment to the nonprofit community and why they've chosen to support NPower in this article from our most recent Tech Do-Gooders eNews...

The strong connection between Microsoft and NPower Northwest spans over a decade, from Microsoft’s role as founding funder in 1999 to key supporter today. In that time, the world and the use of technology have changed substantially. (Think wiring peer to peer networks in 1999 to collaborative mobile solutions today.) In a testament to the fundamental synchronicity between technology and the ability of nonprofits to deliver on their missions, the Microsoft-NPower partnership remains strong today. “We have seen huge shifts together over the past decade,” says Akhtar Badshah, Senior Director, Global Community Affairs. “As a supporter and keen observer of NPower, I value and continue to enjoy our partnership with NPower because together we continue to push the boundaries to better implement technology with nonprofits.”

“I am passionate about the impact NPower makes in the community,” says Cindy Bates, VP, US Small and Medium-Sized Businesses, and NPower Board Secretary. “The challenges nonprofits face parallel those of small businesses in many ways, and so do the possibilities. I support NPower as an advisor, donor, and evangelist because I know that every dollar given to NPower makes an exponential impact in the community.” Cindy points to a particular example of how technology unlocks people’s potential: “At Phinney Neighborhood Association for example, early adoption of Office 365 with NPower’s help led to increased collaboration and productivity for this local organization doing great work. The potential to scale from there with larger organizations is huge.”

Akhtar and Cindy have big visions for the Microsoft-NPower partnership in the future. “My life right now is all about insuring that under-served communities get access to technology,” Akhtar shares. “When I see the technology coming out of the company, I think of NPower first when thinking how we’re going to get that technology implemented in nonprofit organizations for the benefit of our community locally and nationally.” Cindy adds, “Technology is a force multiplier. With NPower as a thought leader in the nonprofit space, we’ll continue to have significant impact in the community. I’m enthusiastic about where NPower is headed and excited to be a part of it.”

Thank you Akhtar and Cindy for your support, and to Microsoft for your partnership! To discuss sponsorship and other partnership opportunities for your company, contact Jenna Barrett, Executive Assistant at jennab@npowernw.org or 206.957.7742.

-- Peg Giffels