Guide · Grant writing
Grant Goals and Objectives: How to Write SMART Objectives (Examples)
The difference between goals, objectives, outputs and outcomes in a grant proposal, how to write SMART objectives, and examples for different sectors.
In a grant proposal, a goal is the broad change you are working toward, and objectives are specific, measurable results that show progress toward that goal within the grant period. Write two to five SMART objectives (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound), focusing on outcomes for people rather than just activities, and make sure each one can be measured in your evaluation plan.
Goals, objectives, outputs and outcomes
| Term | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | The broad change | Children in Eastgate read confidently |
| Objective | A measurable result in the grant period | 70% of 80 participants improve one reading level by June |
| Output | What you deliver | 2,400 tutoring sessions |
| Outcome | What changes for people | Improved reading levels and confidence |
Funders increasingly want outcome objectives, not only output counts.
Writing SMART objectives
Formula
By [date], [number or percentage] of [participants] will [change] as measured by [tool].
| Weak | SMART |
|---|---|
| Improve children's reading | By June 2026, 70% of the 80 participating pupils will improve by at least one reading level, measured by the school's termly assessments |
| Help families eat better | By the end of the growing season, 100 families will complete the program, and 75% will report eating vegetables more often in a follow-up survey |
| Support young entrepreneurs | Within 12 months, 25 participants will launch or formalize a business, verified by registration records |
Examples by sector
- Health: By month 9, 150 adults will complete the diabetes education course, and 60% will report improved confidence managing their condition.
- Environment: By December, volunteers will restore 2 hectares of wetland, and monitoring will record native plant cover above 50%.
- Arts: Over the season, 400 young people will take part in workshops, and 80% will report increased creative confidence.
- Women's empowerment: Within 12 months, 60 women will complete financial skills training, and 40 will open savings accounts.
Tips
- Be realistic. Overpromising sets you up for a poor report.
- Tie every objective to the need you described.
- Plan measurement now: if you cannot measure it, rewrite it. See evaluation plan.
- Use the funder's outcome language if they publish an outcomes framework.
See the full application process in how to write a grant proposal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a goal and an objective?
A goal is the broad change you want to achieve. Objectives are specific, measurable steps that show progress toward the goal.
What are SMART objectives?
Objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound.
How many objectives should a grant have?
Usually two to five. Enough to cover the main changes without making evaluation unmanageable.
What is the difference between outputs and outcomes?
Outputs are what you deliver, such as sessions held. Outcomes are the changes for people, such as improved skills.
Keep reading
- How to Write a Grant Proposal: A Step-by-Step Guide for Nonprofits
- Budget Justification for a Grant: How to Write It (With Examples)
- How to Write a Grant Evaluation Plan (Simple Template)
- How to Write a Statement of Need for a Grant (With Example)
- How to Build a Grant Budget Funders Trust (With Template)
- Nonprofit Impact Report: What to Include and How to Present Results
- 10 Grant Writing Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected
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