Google Groups

Simple group communication for NGOs & SPOs

Google Groups is a free tool that enables nonprofits and social purpose organisations to create and manage email-based discussion groups and mailing lists. It helps teams, volunteers, and partners communicate through a shared group email address, while maintaining a searchable archive of conversations.

Communication challenges for nonprofits & social purpose organisations

Challenge

Many SPOs rely on fragmented communication across personal emails and informal messaging groups

Important updates can be missed, and conversations are not easily accessible to all team members

There is often no central record of discussions for future reference or accountability

Solution

Tools like Google Groups help SPOs centralise communication through shared mailing lists and discussion forums

Messages are accessible to all members and stored in searchable archives

Key capabilities of Google Groups

Mailing list management

Create group email addresses so communication reaches all members consistently

Discussion forum

Access threaded conversations through a web interface or email

Message archive

All communication is automatically stored and searchable over time

Access control

Define who can join, read, and post (public, restricted, or invite-only)

Integration with Google Workspace

Works with Gmail and other Google tools used by many nonprofits

Free access

Available at no cost for individual users and included in Google Workspace

Pricing for nonprofits

Zimyo uses a per-user, per-month pricing model with a minimum billing threshold. Non Profit Organisations should confirm current pricing and features directly with the provider.

Free access

Available with a Google account
Included in Google Workspace (including nonprofit offerings, subject to eligibility)

Best suited for which nonprofits?

Organisations managing communication across distributed teams or volunteers

SPOs needing structured, email-based communication

Small to mid-size NGOs moving from informal messaging tools

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Google Groups free for nonprofits?

Yes, it is available at no cost with a Google account and is included in Google Workspace.

Can it handle communication for large teams or volunteer networks?

It can support large mailing lists, making it suitable for SPOs managing staff, volunteers, and partners. Organisations should verify current limits.

Is it the same as a newsletter or fundraising tool?

No, it is designed for group communication. Tools like Mailchimp are more suitable for one-way outreach.

Can it be used with volunteers and partners?

Yes, SPOs can include external members and manage access through group settings.

Is it suitable for urgent communication?

No, it is designed for asynchronous communication. Real-time tools may be needed alongside it.

Want to learn more?

Visit Google Groups