Technology Grantmaking Toolkit: Practical tools for technology grantmaking in Canada's voluntary sector

9. Resource list

Objective: Provide easy access to more detailed articles, research and thinking about technology use in the voluntary sector.

There are hundreds of resources available to help guide and inform individuals working in the voluntary sector with respect to the most efficient, cost-effective and useful ways to incorporate technology support in all aspects of technology planning and fundraising. In previous chapters, we have provided links to a number of the best resources related to specific topics – planning, grant writing, benchmarking. What follows is a list of some of the best general purpose not-for-profit technology reference web sites and support services.

Technology Reference Web Sites

• Making IT Work for Volunteers – Offers a comprehensive library of not-for-profit technology resources as well as an online partnership platform and a free tech support service. http://www.volunteersonline.ca
  
  
• ItrainOnline – A collaborative tech support portal for NGOs run by both Canadian and international organizations. Large numbers of practical how-to guides gathered from around the world. http://www.itrainonline.org
  
  
• TechSoup – Large tech portal providing support, advice and resources to not-for-profits. http://www.techsoup.org

Technology Support and Services

• FirSTep – Free technology support for Canadian not-for-profits. Operated by LEFCA, Ajilon and Making IT Work for Volunteers, FirSTep is a great opportunity for voluntary sector organisations to benefit from the advice of some of Canada's most respected IT consulting firms. http://www.volunteersonline.ca/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=94
  
  
• reBoot – Low cost computers and software for Canadian not-for-profits. Distributes refurbished computer hardware acquired through donation to not-for-profits, charities and those with limited access to technology. reBoot also provide training and technical support. http://www.rebootcanada.ca/
  
  
• IM/IT Training and Technical Support Network. This federally supported project will provide voluntary sector organizations with ongoing access to IT planning and expert advice, current hardware and software appropriate to their needs, training to keep up with technology, and technical support at the lowest possible rates. http://www.vsi-isbc.org/eng/imit/program.cfm
  
  
• Fifty Fabulous Free & Low Cost Nonprofit Friendly Web Resources
  A collection of easy, inexpensive and quick technology resources for not-for-profits. http://www.summitcollaborative.com/lowhangfruit.html