Why Nonprofits Need to Move Off Dynamics GP and Consider Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Microsoft Dynamics GP, a long-time staple for nonprofit financial operations, is nearing its end of life. By December 31, 2029, GP Mainstream support will end, leaving organizations vulnerable compliance failures, operational inefficiencies, and non-working systems if technical issues cannot be resolved.. While the final date may seem distant, the time to act is now. Transitioning to a modern solution isn’t just about staying supported, it’s about unlocking the tools nonprofits need to amplify their impact in an increasingly digital world.

Why Business Central is the Logical Next Step

Microsoft has developed Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC) as the natural successor to Dynamics GP, offering an innovative platform for nonprofits. While BC provides a robust foundation, nonprofits may require enhanced functionality—such as advanced fund accounting or grant management capabilities—to meet their unique needs. By combining BC’s core strengths with purpose-built extensions, nonprofits can create the ideal ecosystem to drive impact and efficiency. Here’s why BC is the ideal solution:

1. Unmatched Discounts for Nonprofits: Through Microsoft’s Tech for Social Impact (TSI) program, qualifying nonprofits can enjoy up to 60% off licensing costs for Business Central, making it an affordable and impactful investment.
2. Seamless Integration with the Microsoft Ecosystem: Business Central is built to connect with the tools nonprofits already use today, including:
   • Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel) for collaboration and productivity.
   • Microsoft Teams for communication and file sharing.
   • Microsoft Power Platform (Power Apps, Power BI) to build custom applications and gain advanced insights.
3. AI-Powered Efficiency with Copilot: Copilot, Microsoft’s AI assistant, is embedded in Business Central to streamline workflows, provide actionable insights, and enhance overall efficiency.
4. World-Class Security: Operating within one of the most secure clouds in the world, Business Central benefits from Microsoft’s multi-billion-dollar annual investment in cybersecurity. This ensures optimal protection for your organization’s data.

Why Sikich is the Right Partner for Your Journey

We will help optimize Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central for your nonprofit organization, incorporating purpose-built functionality to meet the unique needs of your sector. Here’s why Sikich is the trusted partner for nonprofits:

1. Deep Nonprofit Expertise: Sikich combines years of experience in nonprofit operations with extensive knowledge of fund accounting and grant management. Company-wide, we have served over 1,700 nonprofits, with more than 100 nonprofit clients currently leveraging Microsoft Dynamics solutions to streamline their accounting and reporting. As one of only 22 Managed Partners in North America under Microsoft’s Tech for Social Impact (TSI) group, Sikich gives nonprofits direct access to Microsoft’s latest nonprofit-focused technologies, roadmaps, and funding opportunities. Our close collaboration with Microsoft allows us to share real-world insights from organizations like yours, advocate for your needs within Microsoft’s technology ecosystem, and help you maximize available discounts and grants—ensuring you have the right tools to maximize your impact.
2. Proven GP to BC Migration Expertise: Our deep understanding of GP and BC ensures a well-planned transition, preserving your historical data and minimizing disruptions to your operations. With over 150 Dynamics consultants averaging 15+ years of experience with Microsoft solutions, our team brings unmatched expertise to guide your migration.
3. Comprehensive Microsoft Ecosystem Support: Beyond your migration, Sikich supports the entire Microsoft ecosystem, helping nonprofits gain efficiency and maximize ROI from tools like Power BI, Power Automate, Microsoft 365, and Microsoft Azure. Our team’s extensive experience with Microsoft products ensures that your organization can fully leverage integrated technologies to streamline operations and achieve your goals.
4. Flexible, Phased Approach: Sikich helps you align technology investments with your budget cycles and adoption pace. Whether you’re ready for full migration or prefer a phased implementation, we deliver immediate value while planning for long-term success.
5. A Trusted Track Record: Having guided numerous nonprofits through successful GP to BC transitions, Sikich brings a proven methodology to help you modernize efficiently and effectively.

Make the Move Today

Don’t wait until the clock runs out on Dynamics GP. Transitioning to Business Central not only ensures continued support, but it also empowers your nonprofit with modern tools to achieve greater efficiency, transparency, and impact. By planning for a phased approach, nonprofits can ensure they achieve full functionality tailored to their specific operational needs.

Every day on an outdated system is a missed opportunity for efficiency, compliance, and impact, all affecting limited resources of time, money, and people. Contact Sikich today to explore how Business Central and a tailored phased approach can drive your mission forward.