Top 12 Learning Management Systems for Nonprofits in 2025

Finding the right learning management system for your nonprofit can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

You need a platform that not only fits a tight budget but also supports your unique goals. That might be training volunteers, educating community members, or providing professional development for your staff. The challenge is that many LMS platforms are built for corporate giants, with pricing and features that just don’t align with a nonprofit’s mission.

That’s where this guide comes in. I’ve done the heavy lifting to find, review, and compare the best learning management systems for nonprofits. We’ll move past the generic marketing fluff and get straight to what matters. I’ll break down how each platform can specifically serve your organization’s needs, from managing volunteer onboarding to tracking compliance training and delivering impactful educational programs.

This isn’t just a list of names. For each system, you’ll find a detailed analysis covering:

• Nonprofit-specific pricing and any available discounts.
• Key features that are genuinely useful for organizations like yours.
• Practical use cases to help you envision it in action.
• An honest look at potential limitations or implementation hurdles.

My goal is to give you a clear, comprehensive resource to make an informed decision without spending weeks on research. To enhance your training content and streamline production, you might also want to explore using AI-generated videos for e-learning modules, which can be a cost-effective way to create engaging material.

Let’s dive in and find the perfect LMS to help you amplify your impact.

1. MoodleCloud

MoodleCloud is the official, fully-hosted version of the well-known open-source Moodle platform. This makes it an excellent choice for nonprofits that want the power and flexibility of Moodle without the technical headache of self-hosting.

It’s a great fit if you need one of the best learning management systems for nonprofits but don’t have a dedicated IT team to manage servers and software updates. Moodle handles all the backend infrastructure for you.

The platform offers a robust set of core features right out of the box, including unlimited courses and activities, integrated video conferencing for up to 100 users, and detailed reporting. This is perfect for volunteer training, supporter education, or member certification programs.

For organizations that rely heavily on video-based training, learning about optimizing video workflows in Moodle can significantly improve the learner experience.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The low annual entry price and predictable tiers are a huge plus for budget-conscious organizations. Setup is fast, and you get official support directly from the source.
• Cons: The Standard plans don’t allow for custom plugins, which can limit extensibility. If you need advanced customization, you’ll have to upgrade. Also, billing is in Australian Dollars (AUD), which might create minor accounting hurdles for some international nonprofits.
• Best For: Small to mid-sized nonprofits needing a reliable, scalable, and cost-effective LMS without the burden of self-hosting.

MoodleCloud is a solid SaaS LMS solution. It provides a strong foundation for any nonprofit’s e-learning initiatives. You can explore different types of learning management systems to see how it compares to other models.

Website: https://moodlecloud.com

2. TalentLMS

TalentLMS is a cloud-based platform that’s known for its user-friendly interface and rapid deployment. It’s a fantastic option for nonprofits that need to get training programs up and running quickly without a steep learning curve.

The platform strikes a great balance between powerful features and ease of use. This makes it one of the most accessible learning management systems for nonprofits that may not have a dedicated e-learning team. Plus, they offer a verified 20% discount for 501(c)(3) organizations.

This LMS supports unlimited courses with SCORM and xAPI compatibility, which allows for rich, interactive content. Its blended learning capabilities are perfect for combining online modules with in-person workshops, a common need for volunteer onboarding or staff development.

A standout feature is the optional TalentLibrary add-on. It gives you instant access to a large collection of professionally made courses on soft skills and compliance topics, saving you a ton of content creation time.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The setup is incredibly fast, and a generous free-forever tier lets you thoroughly test the platform for up to five users. It also offers excellent multilingual support and extensive documentation, which is great for global teams. The verified nonprofit discount makes it an affordable, high-value choice.
• Cons: To unlock advanced analytics and the ready-made content library, you’ll need to purchase add-ons. The pricing model is based on active users, so you might have to adjust your plan periodically as your training programs scale.
• Best For: Nonprofits of any size that prioritize ease of use, speed to launch, and a clean administrative experience for managing volunteer, staff, or member training.

TalentLMS is an excellent all-around solution that simplifies e-learning management while providing powerful tools for growth. Its focus on user experience helps ensure high adoption rates among learners and administrators alike.

Website: https://www.talentlms.com

3. LearnWorlds for Nonprofits

LearnWorlds is an all-in-one platform that’s great at helping nonprofits create and sell beautiful online courses. If your organization wants to build a public-facing educational hub for supporters or generate revenue through course sales, this is a fantastic option.

It combines a powerful LMS with a drag-and-drop website builder, so you can manage your training and your storefront all in one place.

The platform is packed with features designed for engagement, like interactive video, eBooks, and automated certificate issuance. This makes it ideal for more than just internal volunteer training. You can build out comprehensive certification programs for your community or educational resources for the public, all under your own brand.

Their special program for NGOs, which includes discounts and templates, makes it one of the more accessible learning management systems for nonprofits focused on growth.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The no-code setup gives you incredible control over design and branding. You also benefit from a 30-day free trial, special nonprofit discounts, and zero transaction fees from LearnWorlds on your course sales.
• Cons: Some of the more advanced features, like a fully branded mobile app, are reserved for higher-tier plans. It’s also most effective when your goals include public education or revenue generation, rather than purely internal training.
• Best For: Nonprofits that want to create a professional, public-facing online school to educate their community, train advocates, or generate sustainable income through paid courses and memberships.

LearnWorlds shines as a comprehensive solution for organizations aiming to monetize their expertise. If you’re weighing your options, you can explore several powerful LearnWorlds alternatives to see how it stacks up against the competition.

Website: https://www.learnworlds.com/lms-for-ngo/

4. Thinkific for Non-Profits

Thinkific is a powerful course creation platform that many organizations use as a lightweight but effective learning management system. It’s particularly well-suited for nonprofits focused on external education or fundraising through courses.

The big draw here is their generous 50% discount for eligible nonprofits on their Start and Grow plans. This makes it an accessible option for those needing robust tools without a huge budget.

This platform excels at creating polished, engaging courses with a mix of video, text, quizzes, and even live sessions. You can build a fully branded website to host your courses, manage student communities, and process payments directly.

For nonprofits aiming to launch public awareness campaigns, onboard new volunteers with standardized training, or even generate revenue through educational content, Thinkific provides all the necessary tools in a single, user-friendly package.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The deep 50% nonprofit discount is a major advantage. It’s also incredibly easy to get started with its intuitive drag-and-drop course builder, so you can deploy training programs quickly. The platform is built to scale, offering monetization options if your nonprofit decides to sell training.
• Cons: While excellent for course delivery, it lacks some of the deep administrative and compliance-tracking features of a traditional enterprise LMS. The nonprofit discount also doesn’t apply to their top-tier Expand plan, which could be a limitation for larger organizations needing advanced features.
• Best For: Nonprofits that need to quickly create and deliver beautiful online courses for public education, volunteer onboarding, or fundraising initiatives.

Thinkific stands out as one of the best learning management systems for nonprofits that prioritize ease of use and a professional-looking learner experience over complex backend reporting.

Website: https://get.thinkific.com/non-profit/

5. Totara

Totara is a powerful, open-source platform designed for large, complex organizations. This makes it a serious contender for major NGOs and international nonprofits.

It’s built as a suite of products: Totara Learn (the LMS), Engage (a learning experience platform), and Perform (a performance management system). This structure makes it one of the most comprehensive learning management systems for nonprofits that need to manage intricate compliance training, diverse audience needs, and employee development all in one place.

Unlike typical SaaS platforms, Totara operates on a partner-led model. You subscribe to the software and then work with a certified Totara Partner who handles implementation, hosting, customization, and support. This model is perfect for nonprofits with specific or advanced requirements that off-the-shelf systems can’t meet.

Its robust multi-tenancy architecture allows you to create distinct, branded learning environments for different audiences like staff, volunteers, and member organizations, all from a single installation.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The platform is highly customizable and scalable, capable of handling tens of thousands of users. It offers excellent value compared to proprietary enterprise systems with similar capabilities and has strong case studies within the nonprofit sector.
• Cons: The total cost of ownership can be high. Pricing is determined by partners and often involves significant implementation and customization fees. Its administrative complexity means you’ll need a dedicated person or team to manage it effectively.
• Best For: Large, established nonprofits and NGOs with complex compliance needs, multiple audience groups, and the budget for a custom implementation.

Totara is the go-to choice when a standard LMS just won’t cut it and you need an adaptable, enterprise-level solution tailored to your organization’s unique structure.

Website: https://www.totara.com/us/industries/nonprofit/

6. Tovuti LMS for Nonprofits

Tovuti LMS is a full-featured platform that goes beyond standard course delivery. It offers a comprehensive solution specifically tailored for the nonprofit sector.

It uniquely combines training capabilities with event management and even eCommerce. This allows organizations to manage volunteer training, member education, and fundraising activities all in one place. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for one of the best learning management systems for nonprofits that can serve as a central hub for community engagement and development.

The platform includes a powerful course authoring tool, supports live virtual sessions, and provides robust event management features like waitlists and automated notifications. Its monetization tools are particularly useful for nonprofits. They enable you to sell tickets to fundraising events or offer premium content through subscriptions.

With extensive integration options via API and SSO, Tovuti can connect seamlessly with your existing CRM and HRIS systems, creating a unified data ecosystem. Understanding your core needs is the first step, and you can learn more about how to choose the right LMS for your organization to ensure a good fit.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The platform’s user experience is excellent, with a clean interface, strong mobile compatibility, and great branding options. The combination of training, event management, and fundraising tools in a single system is a major advantage.
• Cons: Pricing is entirely quote-based, which can make initial budgeting a challenge, and costs may rise with necessary add-ons. The platform’s extensive features mean implementation can become complex depending on your specific use case.
• Best For: Mid-sized to large nonprofits looking for an all-in-one solution to manage training, community events, and revenue generation without juggling multiple platforms.

Tovuti LMS is a powerful contender for organizations that need more than just a course delivery system. It provides the tools to build a thriving and engaged community.

Website: https://www.tovutilms.com/lms-for-nonprofits

7. SAP Litmos

SAP Litmos is a well-established, enterprise-grade learning management system that brings powerful, AI-driven features to the nonprofit sector.

It’s designed for organizations that need a sophisticated platform to manage complex training needs, from volunteer onboarding to staff compliance and leadership development. With a strong focus on automation and integration, Litmos helps nonprofits streamline their educational programs at scale.

The platform supports all major content standards like SCORM and xAPI and offers a robust mobile app for learning on the go. Its standout features include an AI-powered content creation tool and access to extensive off-the-shelf content libraries from Litmos and Go1.

This makes it one of the more comprehensive learning management systems for nonprofits that need ready-to-deploy training materials, particularly around compliance and professional skills.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The platform is incredibly scalable, making it suitable for large, growing organizations. It has a dedicated program and content library for nonprofits, showing a clear commitment to the sector. Its powerful integrations, especially with Salesforce, are a major advantage for data-driven organizations.
• Cons: Pricing is not public and requires a custom quote, which can be a hurdle for nonprofits trying to budget. The sheer number of features might require professional services for implementation, adding to the overall cost and complexity.
• Best For: Larger nonprofits or those with complex compliance and training needs that require a powerful, scalable, and feature-rich LMS with deep integration capabilities.

SAP Litmos provides a premium solution that can grow with your organization’s most ambitious training goals.

Website: https://www.litmos.com/nonprofit

8. Absorb LMS

Absorb LMS is a powerful, enterprise-grade platform that shines for nonprofits with complex training needs. If your organization trains diverse audiences like volunteers, staff, community partners, and even the general public, Absorb’s multi-portal capability is a standout feature.

This allows you to create distinct, branded learning environments for each group, all managed from a single, centralized system. It’s one of the best learning management systems for nonprofits that need to segment their training delivery effectively.

The platform is built for scale and offers robust reporting and analytics dashboards, giving you deep insights into learner progress and program effectiveness. For nonprofits looking to create a revenue stream, its built-in eCommerce functionality is a major advantage. You can sell courses or access to content libraries, turning your educational initiatives into a sustainable source of funding.

This is especially useful for organizations offering professional certifications or specialized public workshops.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The multi-audience training support is exceptional, providing a tailored experience for every learner group. The platform is highly scalable and comes with dedicated onboarding and customer support, which is great for organizations that need a helping hand.
• Cons: Pricing is quote-based and tends to be at a premium level, which may place it outside the budget for smaller nonprofits. The platform’s complexity means it can be more than what a small or mid-sized organization with simple training needs requires.
• Best For: Larger nonprofits or those with a sophisticated training strategy that involves multiple distinct audiences, corporate partners, or a desire to monetize educational content through a robust eCommerce engine.

Absorb LMS is a fantastic choice if you need a scalable, feature-rich solution to manage and grow a multifaceted training program.

Website: https://www.absorblms.com/pricing/

9. 360Learning

360Learning positions itself as a collaborative learning platform. This makes it a unique choice among learning management systems for nonprofits. Its core idea is to empower your internal experts, like seasoned volunteers or knowledgeable staff, to co-create training content quickly.

This approach is fantastic for organizations that need to develop and update materials rapidly without a dedicated instructional design team. It fosters a peer-learning culture that can be incredibly powerful for engaging distributed teams and volunteers.

The platform is built around collaborative course authoring, allowing for in-course feedback, coaching, and discussion. This means learners can ask questions and suggest improvements directly within a training module, and subject matter experts can respond just as quickly.

You can also leverage automation for enrollment and create specific learning workflows, which helps streamline onboarding for new staff or volunteers. The system integrates with other essential tools, ensuring your learning data connects with your wider organizational analytics.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The collaborative model dramatically accelerates content creation, turning your internal knowledge into training assets. It’s incredibly well-suited for nonprofits with distributed teams that rely on peer-to-peer knowledge sharing.
• Cons: Transparent pricing is primarily available for their SMB “Team” plan, which is capped at 100 users. Larger organizations will need to request a custom quote. The platform is less focused on external-facing training or eCommerce features like selling courses to the public.
• Best For: Nonprofits that want to build a dynamic, internal learning culture and leverage the expertise of their own team members to create relevant and timely training.

360Learning is an excellent option if your goal is to decentralize course creation and make learning a continuous, collaborative conversation within your organization.

Website: https://360learning.com/pricing

10. D2L Brightspace for Nonprofits

D2L Brightspace is a powerful, enterprise-grade LMS that provides sophisticated tools for nonprofits with complex training needs. If your organization manages credentialing, continuing education, or mandatory compliance training, Brightspace offers the robust infrastructure needed for large-scale programs.

It’s one of the best learning management systems for nonprofits that require detailed tracking, advanced assessment, and high accessibility standards.

The platform shines with its advanced assessment and credential management features. These are supported by powerful analytics that let you prove learner competency. With access to over 1,800 integrations through D2L Link, you can automate workflows and connect Brightspace to your existing nonprofit software ecosystem.

They also offer design and implementation services to help your team optimize the rollout and ensure a smooth launch for your learners.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: The platform’s commitment to accessibility standards (like WCAG) is a major advantage for inclusive organizations. It’s also ideal for compliance-heavy and credential-rich training programs where tracking and verification are critical. Enterprise-level support ensures you have help when you need it.
• Cons: Pricing is custom and requires a sales consultation, which can be a barrier for organizations that prefer transparent, fixed pricing. The extensive features mean an enterprise implementation can be resource-intensive, making it a better fit for larger nonprofits than for small teams.
• Best For: Large nonprofits and associations that manage complex certification, continuing education, or large-scale compliance training programs requiring deep analytics and accessibility.

D2L Brightspace is a top-tier choice for nonprofits ready to invest in a comprehensive and highly capable learning environment.

Website: https://www.d2l.com/solutions/training-organizations/non-profit/

11. Docebo + OWL (Open World Learning)

Docebo + OWL (Open World Learning) is a unique philanthropic initiative from Intercap Impact, powered by the enterprise-grade Docebo LMS. It’s designed to provide a high-quality, free e-learning platform specifically for smaller nonprofits in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

This program gives eligible organizations access to a powerful learning tool without the associated cost. This makes it an exceptional option for nonprofits with tight budgets that need to upskill staff and volunteers.

The platform provides access to over 1,000 curated courses and structured learning paths covering essential skills like leadership, communication, and digital literacy. You can issue certificates, create a private community space, and even get a branded sub-platform to maintain your organization’s identity.

The simple admin interface and mobile app support make it easy to manage learners and deliver training on the go. This makes OWL one of the most accessible learning management systems for nonprofits just starting their e-learning journey.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: It is completely free for qualifying nonprofits, offering a quick startup on a top-tier learning platform without any financial investment. The curated course library provides immediate value.
• Cons: Access is capped at 300 active monthly users, so it’s not a fit for larger organizations. The feature set is a curated version of the full Docebo platform, meaning you won’t get the same level of deep customization.
• Best For: Small, eligible nonprofits that need a turnkey solution to deliver professional development and training without a budget for a premium LMS.

OWL provides an incredible opportunity for small organizations to leverage a world-class system that would otherwise be out of reach.

Website: https://join.owl.inc/

12. Capterra LMS Shortlist 2025

Instead of being a single platform, Capterra’s LMS Shortlist is a powerful research tool. Think of it as a comprehensive marketplace where you can compare many of the best learning management systems for nonprofits side by side.

For an organization just starting its search, this can save countless hours of research by aggregating user reviews, features, and pricing information all in one place. It’s a fantastic starting point to get a broad overview of the market.

Capterra uses a data-backed methodology to create its shortlist, highlighting top-rated products based on verified user reviews and search popularity. You can use their powerful filters to narrow down options by features critical to nonprofits, such as volunteer management integrations, grant tracking capabilities, or specific pricing models. This helps you move from a massive list of vendors to a manageable group that genuinely fits your unique operational needs.

Key Considerations for Nonprofits

• Pros: It provides a fast and easy way to survey the LMS landscape and discover nonprofit-friendly tools you might not have found otherwise. The real user reviews offer unfiltered insights.
• Cons: Vendor visibility can be influenced by sponsored placements, so it’s wise to look beyond the top few results. Remember, Capterra is a directory, so you still have to contact and negotiate with each vendor directly.
• Best For: Any nonprofit in the initial research phase of selecting an LMS, needing to compare options and create a shortlist of potential vendors.

Capterra’s shortlist simplifies the discovery process. It empowers you to make a more informed decision without having to visit dozens of different websites.

Website: https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/shortlist/

Top 12 LMS Platforms for Nonprofits: Feature Comparison

LMS Platform	Core Features	Value Proposition	Target Audience	Price & Unique Selling Points
MoodleCloud	Unlimited courses, video conferencing, integrations	Low predictable pricing, no IT needed	Small to mid-size nonprofits	Affordable annual pricing, hosted SaaS
TalentLMS	SCORM/xAPI, blended learning, content library	Nonprofit 20% discount available	Nonprofits, blended learning	Generous free tier, user-based pricing
LearnWorlds for Nonprofits	Drag-drop builder, interactive video, eCommerce	Discounts + 30-day trial, no transaction fees	NGOs, revenue-generating courses	Strong design, membership bundles
Thinkific for Non-Profits	Course builder, live sessions, integrations	50% discount on start/grow plans	Nonprofits, volunteer onboarding	Deep nonprofit discount, scalable monetization
Totara	Compliance workflows, multi-tenancy, open source	Good nonprofit references	Large NGOs, complex compliance	Partner-based pricing, enterprise-grade
Tovuti LMS for Nonprofits	Course authoring, event management, API/SSO	Dedicated nonprofit support	Nonprofits, blended learning & fundraising	Quote-based pricing, all-in-one training + fundraising
SAP Litmos	SCORM/xAPI, AI features, content libraries	Nonprofit compliance content	Large nonprofits, compliance-heavy	Quote-based pricing, professional setup
Absorb LMS	Multi-portal branding, eCommerce, analytics	Fits diverse audiences and external partners	Nonprofits training multiple groups	Premium quote-based pricing
360Learning	Collaborative authoring, workflow automation	Accelerates internal content creation	Distributed nonprofit teams	Transparent SMB pricing, less eCommerce focus
D2L Brightspace for Nonprofits	Advanced assessments, credentials, 1800+ integrations	Ideal for compliance and credentialing	Complex nonprofit programs	Custom pricing, enterprise-level implementation
Docebo + OWL (Open World Learning)	1,000+ curated courses, certificates, mobile app	Free for small eligible nonprofits	Small nonprofits up to 300 users	Free platform, limited user cap
Capterra LMS Shortlist 2025	Aggregated ratings, filters, vendor links	Quick LMS market overview	Nonprofits seeking LMS options	Free, vendor negotiation required

Choosing the Right Learning Management System for Your Nonprofit’s Future

Whew, that was a lot of information. We’ve journeyed through a dozen powerful learning management systems for nonprofits, from open-source giants like Moodle to specialized platforms like LearnWorlds for Nonprofits.

Each one offers a unique set of tools designed to help you train volunteers, educate stakeholders, onboard new staff, and ultimately, amplify your mission’s impact.

The core takeaway is this: the “best” LMS isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The perfect platform for your organization depends entirely on your specific goals, your budget, and the people you serve. An international relief organization with complex compliance training needs will have vastly different requirements than a local arts nonprofit looking to offer community workshops.

Key Insights to Guide Your Decision

As you reflect on the options we’ve covered, from the user-friendly interface of TalentLMS to the collaborative power of 360Learning, keep these central themes in mind:

• Pricing is More Than the Sticker Price: Look beyond the monthly fee. Consider implementation costs, potential transaction fees on course sales, and whether the platform offers a dedicated nonprofit discount. Platforms like Thinkific and Tovuti have explicit programs that can make a huge difference.
• Scalability is Your Friend: Your nonprofit will grow, and your training needs will evolve. Choose a system that can grow with you. Solve for tomorrow’s 500 volunteers, not just today’s 50. An LMS like Absorb or SAP Litmos is built for that kind of scale.
• The User Experience Matters Most: If your volunteers, staff, or community members find the platform confusing, they simply won’t use it. Prioritize an intuitive, accessible, and maybe even mobile-friendly interface. A clunky system is a recipe for low engagement and wasted investment.
• Integration is Power: Your LMS shouldn’t live on an island. Consider how it will connect to your existing tools, like your donor database (CRM), email marketing software, or website. Seamless integration saves administrative headaches and creates a more unified experience for everyone.

Your Actionable Next Steps

Feeling a little overwhelmed? That’s completely normal. Here’s a simple, step-by-step plan to move forward with confidence and clarity.

1. Assemble Your Stakeholders: Get input from everyone who will be using the system. This includes program managers, volunteer coordinators, IT staff, and even a few of the learners themselves. Their insights are invaluable.
2. Define Your “Must-Haves”: Create a checklist of non-negotiable features. Do you absolutely need robust reporting for grant applications? Is e-commerce for fundraising courses a priority? Is SCORM compliance essential?
3. Shortlist and Demo: Based on your checklist, pick your top three or four contenders from this list. Sign up for free trials and schedule live demos. This is your chance to get a real feel for the platform and ask tough questions. Don’t be shy!
4. Check References: Ask the sales representative for case studies or contact information for other nonprofits using their platform. Hearing about real-world experiences, both good and bad, is one of the best ways to vet a potential partner.

Choosing from the many learning management systems for nonprofits is a significant decision, but it’s also an incredible opportunity. It’s an investment in your people, your efficiency, and your ability to deliver on your mission more effectively than ever before. You are building a central hub for knowledge and growth that can serve your community for years to come.

Now, go make an informed choice and start building.