The Sage Foundation has launched new accountancy software designed specifically for the not-for-profit sector, and will offer charities free licences.

The new accountancy software called Sage Live Non-profit, was built on the Salesforce App Cloud and launched last week on the Salesforce AppExchange.

Eligible charities will be able to sign up for two donated Sage Live user licences through the Sage Foundation. Further licences will be offered at a 50 per cent discount, the organisation said.

A spokeswoman for Sage said charities would have to complete an eligibilty form, but was unable to say exactly what the criteria to be met would be.

A statement by Sage said it aims to “give non-profits access to cloud technology and tools tailored to their needs” – including balance sheet, statement of financial activities (SoFA) reporting, general processing and fund management capabilities.

Sandra Campopiano, chief people officer at Sage, said: "We understand the tremendous pressures that non-profits deal with in managing operations, often with limited resources and personnel. At Sage we are focused on innovations that will make their lives easier by being able to better manage funds and finances, so they can concentrate efforts where they’re needed most.

“We have been working with our partners to develop the solution and to ensure it’s tailored to their specific needs. We believe that this will make a positive difference to the voluntary sector in their day-to-day business and amplify the valuable contribution they make to communities around the world.”

The voluntary sector is the first to benefit from industry specific packaging for Sage Live, built on the Salesforce App Cloud. The Sage Live Nonprofit solution will integrate with the Salesforce Nonprofit Starter Pack, combining essential financial and donor relationships.