Roughly every other application I come across asks for specific program outputs and/or outcomes, so what’s the difference anyway? The easiest way to remember is that outputs are a number and outcomes are a percentage.
- Outputs = # of activities or individuals
- Outcomes = % change in behavior (or actions, feelings, knowledge, etc.)
When you’re establishing program objectives, it’s important to consider both output and outcome goals. Review and reevaluate your goals at the beginning of each year and/or in conjunction with your annual budget. How many meals can you provide within the budget you have? Use your prior year’s actual program data as a benchmark to inform your next year’s goals.
Even more importantly, make sure you create the systems and processes to track your progress to these goals. If you share goals in your grant application, you will very likely need to report on your progress at the end of the grant term. Establish goals that you can track effectively and those that are realistic to achieve.
Examples of Output Goals:
- 200 unique individuals will graduate our workforce development training
- 500 nights of shelter will be provided to survivors of domestic violence
- 1,000 meals will be served to families earning low incomes
Examples of Outcome Goals:
- 85% of individuals enrolled in our workforce development training will graduate the course
- 70% of adults surveyed will report an improvement in their financial literacy
- 50% of women in shelter will move into permanent housing within 90 days
The Takeaway: Data can serve as a strong indicator of your program’s success. Paired with a compelling narrative, the numbers can tell a story of impact and real lives changed. Having established program goals tells your funders that you’re dedicated to program evaluation and can quantitively and objectively assess your impact. Good luck and happy writing!
Madison Shampine Grant Writing & Consulting 
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