DonorsShield believes in educating donors, boards, and endowment committees on best practices for capital project governance.

The following resources provide practical guidance on evaluating project budgets, structuring contracts, and establishing oversight frameworks. These materials are designed to empower donors with the knowledge needed to ask the right questions and make informed decisions.

Guide

A Donor's Guide to Nonprofit Construction Contracts

Understand the difference between GMP, cost-plus, and design-build contracts. Learn what terms protect donors and which create misaligned incentives.

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Checklist

10 Questions to Ask Before Funding a Capital Campaign

A practical checklist for major donors evaluating capital campaign commitments. Covers budget validation, governance, contract structures, and reporting expectations.

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Brief

How Owner's Reps, Auditors, and DonorsShield Work Together

Clarifies the distinct roles of owner's representatives, financial auditors, and donor-side fiduciary oversight. Learn how these functions complement each other.

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Guide

Understanding GMP vs Cost-Plus Contracts

A deep dive into Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) vs. cost-plus contract structures. Includes case examples and risk analysis for nonprofit projects.

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Checklist

Governance Checklist for Board Oversight of Major Capital Projects

A comprehensive governance framework for nonprofit boards overseeing capital projects. Includes approval gates, reporting cadences, and accountability structures.

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Article

Why Change Orders Are the #1 Risk in Nonprofit Construction

An analysis of how undisciplined change order processes erode project budgets. Learn how to establish rigorous approval gates and prevent scope creep.

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Upcoming Webinars & Events

DonorsShield hosts periodic webinars and workshops for donors, board members, and nonprofit leadership. Check back for upcoming events or contact us to schedule a private workshop for your institution.

Mar
15

Webinar: Capital Project Governance for University Endowments

2:00 PM EST | Virtual Event

Register
Apr
22

Workshop: Contract Structures for Major Donors

10:00 AM EST | New York, NY

Register

Want custom guidance for your project?

Contact DonorsShield