Ottawa, Canada — The Digital Governance Council (DGC) is pleased to announce the prelaunch of its Nonprofit Digital Capability Verification Program, a new addition to the Council’s suite of organizational assessment and validation programs. This initiative complements the existing ImpactReady Validation and Verification Program and is based on the emerging Digital Capability Assessment Framework for Nonprofit Organizations (DGSI 135).
The new program enables nonprofits to demonstrate digital maturity and readiness across their operations at a time when digital demands, risks, and expectations continue to increase.
Strengthening Digital Capacity Across Canada’s Nonprofit Sector
Developed through the Council’s Digital Governance Standards Institute, DGSI 135 outlines the minimum digital capability requirements nonprofit organizations need to maintain effective, modern operations and service delivery. The framework provides a structured way for nonprofits to assess:
- Tools and technologies
- Staff skills and training
- Data and information management practices
- Governance structures
- Cybersecurity and privacy posture
- AI and emerging technology readiness
- Digital leadership
This prelaunch is part of Futureproofing the Community Service Workforce, a national initiative supported by the Government of Canada’s Skills for Success program. The initiative aims to unlock the nonprofit sector’s digital potential and build digital capacity across the country.
“The Futureproofing the Community Service Workforce initiative has shown that nonprofits are eager to build digital capability, but they need tools that fit their realities,” said Keith Jansa, Chief Executive Officer of the Digital Governance Council. “By adding the verification program to the resources available for nonprofits, we are turning research and prototyping into something concrete — a way for organizations to credibly show they are building the digital foundations required for the future of community service work.”
Complimentary Verification for Prelaunch Participants
During the prelaunch phase, nonprofit and community service organizations can participate in a complimentary digital capability verification review using DGSI 135.
This independent review provides a structured approach to assessing digital maturity across seven capability categories, forming a baseline for digital competence in community-serving organizations.
Upon completion, participating organizations will receive a formal Statement of Verification from the Digital Governance Council confirming the completion of a structured digital capability assessment using the emerging DGSI 135 standard. This verification offers credible, third-party evidence of an organization’s digital readiness and commitment.
“This prelaunch marks the introduction of a trusted, sector-wide standard for demonstrating digital readiness,” said Wilfreda Edward, Executive Director of the Canadian Centre for Nonprofit Digital Resilience (CCNDR). “Grounded in the Digital Capability Assessment Framework developed by DGC, it offers a clear path to strengthening how nonprofits serve their communities.”
Case Study Opportunity for Sector Leaders
Nonprofits participating in the prelaunch may also opt to become featured case studies. These organizations will be profiled during the official launch of the framework and associated sector materials, receiving national recognition as leaders in digital modernization.
Case study participation also demonstrates measurable commitment to digital governance and strengthens credibility with funders, donors, and partners by showcasing how emerging standards support mission delivery, service effectiveness, and public trust.
Building on ImpactReady to Advance Trust and Accountability
The Nonprofit Digital Capability Verification Program expands the Council’s validation offerings by complementing ImpactReady, which focuses on responsible data governance and stewardship. Together, these programs help nonprofits demonstrate the maturity of their digital and data practices in a clear, consistent, and standards-based manner.
Call for Participation
Nonprofit and community service organizations interested in joining the Nonprofit Digital Capability Verification Program prelaunch can register via the program’s page. Space is limited to ensure meaningful engagement and support.
Learn more about the Futureproofing the Community Service Workforce initiative and access related resources at www.futureproof.ccndr.ca.
About the Digital Governance Council
The Digital Governance Council (DGC) is a not-for-profit organization advancing responsible digital governance through leadership in standards and verification. Its independent division, the Digital Governance Standards Institute (DGSI), develops and maintains standards that promote accountability, transparency, and trust in technology.
Through initiatives such as Futureproofing the Community Service Workforce, the Council collaborates with nonprofit sector leaders and partners — including Imagine Canada, The Dias, and Blueprint ADE — to ensure organizations have the guidance they need to build resilient, trustworthy, and effective digital capabilities.