Amazon Web Services

Cloud infrastructure platform for building and scaling digital systems

Amazon Web Services (AWS) provides on-demand cloud infrastructure such as servers, storage, and databases. It enables nonprofits to run applications, manage data, and scale digital systems without maintaining physical infrastructure.

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Infrastructure challenges for nonprofits

Challenge
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Setting up and maintaining servers is costly and complex

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Systems are difficult to scale as programmes grow

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Managing uptime, backups, and security requires specialised capacity

Solution
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AWS enables organisations to run applications and manage data on cloud infrastructure, reducing reliance on physical servers and supporting scalable, reliable systems

Key capabilities of AWS

Cloud compute (EC2)

Run applications and backend systems on virtual servers

Cloud storage (S3)

Store documents, datasets, and media reliably at scale

Managed databases (RDS)

Maintain structured data without managing database infrastructure

Scalable infrastructure

Increase or reduce resources based on usage

Security and access control

Manage permissions, encryption, and secure access

Data and AI services

Use services for analytics, automation, and language-based applications

Language support

The AWS interface and documentation are primarily available in English, with localisation for selected services. Applications and data can support multiple languages depending on implementation.

Pricing for nonprofits

AWS (Pay-as-you-go)

  • Pay only for infrastructure used
  • Free tier available for limited usage
  • Credits available through AWS Nonprofit Credit Program

AWS programmes for nonprofits

  • AWS Nonprofit Credit Program – cloud credits for eligible organisations
  • AWS Imagine Grant – funding and technical support for innovative projects
  • Additional support for AI and research initiatives

Best suited for which nonprofits?

Organisations running or planning digital platforms and applications

NGOs managing large datasets or backend systems

Teams with technical capacity or access to implementation support

Similar tools for cloud infrastructure

Google Cloud Platform
Microsoft Azure
DigitalOcean

Frequently Asked Questions

What problem does AWS solve for nonprofits?

It provides scalable infrastructure for running applications and managing data without maintaining physical servers.

When should a nonprofit use AWS?

When they need to host systems, manage data at scale, or build cloud-based applications.

Does it require technical expertise?

Yes, cloud infrastructure typically requires technical setup and management.

How is it different from tools like Google Workspace?

AWS provides backend infrastructure (servers, storage, databases), while tools like Google Workspace provide end-user applications.

Is AWS free for nonprofits?

AWS offers a free tier and credits for eligible nonprofits, but most services follow a pay-as-you-go pricing model.

Want to learn more?

Visit Amazon Web Services

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