How to Write Clarifying Outcomes

Successful grant writing requires clarity— aligning your mission with that of the funder’s and about the specific changes your work is making in your community. Funders want to know how your outcomes can help them meet their mission.

Not to be confused with outputs, which are the immediate, tangible activities like workshops, events, or meals that are delivered by a program, outcomes identify the expected changes in knowledge, skills, behaviors and attitudes that your project addresses. Outcomes are the result of outputs: i.e. improved health, reduced homelessness, increased graduation rates.

Written with an “increase” or “decrease” in mind, outcomes show the funder how your proposed project will affect your target audience along a short- to long-term continuum.

• The results should demonstrate impact, i.e. “We improved literacy by x % through our reading initiative as noted by test scores.”

• Provide a clear timeline for milestones when communicating your outcomes: “six months into our project, we anticipate an increase in …”

Having defined outcomes help to set realistic goals, ensuring that the project stays focused on objectives. Outcomes also help track progress, collect data and evaluate success.

When you make your outcomes meaningful and compelling, funders will see how your efforts foster change in your community and whether they can see themselves as a partner in that mission.