Actually, there was likely no payment requested - like you say, it's only been 3 weeks and a "deposit" is not likely expected either.
But, the point stands. Dispelling one interwebz scam should not be multiplied to "any" or all possibilities of payment problems. Maybe we should go on glass door or alike and see "contractors" or employees experience working for the tech donors - to know what to likely expect.
edit Lol, reading ahead if these donors are paying the bills for future "pay to play" benefits