epic ERP recently hosted a round table discussion for non-profit organisations (NPOs) in collaboration with 4Sight at Microsoft’s offices in Bryanston. The event brought together leaders from across the sector to explore how technology can be used to drive impact, streamline operations and improve service delivery.
epic ERP MD Stuart Scanlon says the event also provided great networking opportunities.
“I had interesting discussions with representatives from a number of NPOs, including The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Retina South Africa, and Phakamani Impact Capital,” he said.
The session was led by Microsoft’s Ian Drew, channel manager for Microsoft’s Local and Learning Organisation. Delegates from several NPOs joined in a highly interactive discussion about data management, digital transformation and the opportunities presented by AI.
Opening the session, Ian described Microsoft’s long-standing commitment to the non-profit space.
“Our mission is to empower every person and every organisation on the planet to achieve more – and we genuinely mean it,” he said.
He explained how Microsoft’s Elevate initiative builds on its earlier Tech for Social Impact programme, combining education and non-profit support under one umbrella. The aim, he said, is to make technology “… a force amplifier for non-profits”, helping them scale their work even when resources are limited.
“Copilot has allowed us to access and query 20 years of legacy data efficiently.” – Mark Summers, Gorongosa Restoration Project
AI, according to Ian, is already transforming how organisations operate.
“We’ve seen small non-profits using Copilot save enough time to effectively add another person to their staff,” he shared. “AI provides an opportunity to rethink business processes and empower teams to work more efficiently.”
He also emphasised the importance of using secure, enterprise-grade AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, especially for organisations handling sensitive donor or beneficiary data.
“It’s like locking your office door,” he said. “You wouldn’t leave the physical space open – so don’t leave your digital one unprotected.”
Solid systems for meaningful impact
Stuart provided some insight into how ERP systems underpin digital transformation in the non-profit space.
“The biggest point is to start understanding the context of what’s important in your data,” he said. “What mattered 10 years ago might not be relevant today. Before implementing new systems or AI tools, it’s crucial to assess what you already have and where the real value lies.”
He encouraged delegates to see ERP as a backbone for integration across functions such as finance, donor management and reporting.
“An ERP platform helps you capture, connect and verify data,” Stuart explained. “It ensures that when you report back to funders or stakeholders, you’re confident in the accuracy and relevance of what you’re presenting.”
He also highlighted the value of collaboration between technology providers.
“Microsoft offers extraordinary capability through AI and cloud services, but partners like epic ERP play a vital role in contextualising those tools for local NPOs,” he said. “It’s about translating potential into practical solutions.”
From insight to action
Throughout the session, delegates shared their own challenges – from data silos and storage costs to staff skilling and system migration. Ian stressed the importance of starting small and building confidence.
“Find the thing that’s the least risky, the easiest win, and do it,” he advised. “Then keep moving forward. It’s about momentum.”
He also pointed attendees to Microsoft’s non-profit portal, which offers resources, grants and discounted licences for eligible organisations.
As the conversation drew to a close, Ian and Stuart agreed that the intersection of AI and ERP presents a remarkable opportunity for NPOs to scale their social impact.
“AI shouldn’t replace people,” said Ian “it should elevate them. When we use technology responsibly and inclusively, it amplifies human potential.”
Stuart echoed the sentiment: “Technology only matters if it helps you deliver on your mission. ERP and AI together give NPOs the structure and insight to do just that – to make every effort count.”
