How not-for-profits save time, reduce risk, and maximize value using the Design-Build delivery method, and why it’s ideal for NFP organizations planning a new facility.

For nonprofits, every dollar counts. The Design-Build approach offers a more streamlined, cost-effective way to deliver projects without compromising on quality, speed to market, or mission alignment. Design-Build brings all stakeholders under one roof for better collaboration and control.

Benefits of Design-Build for Not-for-Profit Organizations:

• Single point of contact for design and construction decisions
• Faster delivery, reducing overall schedule and cost escalation risks
• Budget alignment from day one (you know where every dollar goes)
• More collaboration, less finger-pointing between designers and contractors
• Technology-driven planning, including Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) and BIM

 

FAQ: Design-Build for Nonprofits

Q: Is Design-Build more expensive?

Not at all. In fact, it often reduces total project costs by avoiding redesigns, delays, and change orders common in traditional methods.

Q: Will we lose control of the design?

No. You’re involved from the start and remain part of every major design decision, only now with a team that ensures your vision aligns with your budget.

Q: What if our board or funders need certainty before approving construction?

Design-Build offers early cost certainty, helping you present a clear, unified plan that builds trust with donors, boards, and grant makers.

If you’re a nonprofit planning a new facility, Design-Build is a partnership model that protects your mission, your money, and your timeline.

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When the Boys & Girls Clubs of Valparaiso realized their aging building needed over $2 million in repairs just to stay operational, they faced a tough choice. Instead of pouring money into short-term fixes, they chose to build new, and they selected Design-Build as their project delivery method. As the single-source Design-Builder, our team led the planning, design, and construction of a 37,000-square-foot facility that now serves over 500 children, more than five times the capacity of the original Club.

“Selecting Tonn and Blank as our design-build partner on our new Club in Valpo was an absolute pleasure.  Throughout the project, we were faced with material shortages and pricing increases, but they managed to complete the project on time and within our original budget. We couldn’t be happier with the relationship we’ve established with them.”

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Indiana
Mark Jones, Vice President of Club Services