If you’re not using logic models in your grant writing, you should be.

Logic models are a great way to test your thinking, allowing you to list the different elements of a project and identify how they build upon each other to achieve your intended outcomes.

But it can be difficult to know where to start.

In this guide, we’ll provide:

• An overview of logic models
• Answers to why you need one in your grant application
• The components of a successful logic model, including examples
• A look at the tools you can use to create your own, including a logic model template from grant writing expert Sheleia Phillips, to kickstart the process.

Sound good?

Let’s get started!

‍

What Is a Logic Model in Grant Writing?

Before we jump in, let’s take a quick step back. What exactly is a logic model? And how is it used in grant writing?

Logic models are a tool grant writers use to help define a project’s goals and how its components work together to achieve specific outcomes and drive impact.

Most often depicted as a flow chart, logic models list various elements, including inputs, activities, and outputs, and illustrate how these elements work together to influence outcomes and impact the community.

Sheleia Phillips, founder and CEO of SMP Nonprofit Consulting, shares more:
‍

“A logic model is a structured framework of ‘if-then’ relationships. It demonstrates how each element should contribute to achieving a project's intended goals and outcomes and fosters a shared understanding of the program's components among stakeholders.”

Nonprofit logic models are a great way to help visualize projects, allowing you—and potential funders—to see how the different pieces of a project are interconnected.

Unfortunately, many grant writers skip out on logic models if they’re not required. They think the logic model takes too long to create or doesn’t add value to their application.

However, that’s a big mistake.

‍

Why Is a Nonprofit Logic Model Important?

Logic models are an incredible tool to have in your arsenal to elevate your proposals.

Here are the top reasons why a logic model should be a vital step in your grant writing process:

• Logic models provide a comprehensive view of a project. They help you understand every element of the project and how they work together to achieve the desired goal. As a result, you can clearly and concisely communicate that to potential funders.
• Logic models lend credibility to your proposal. They show funders that your project will work in practice and not just in theory. Logic models also illustrate how your project will make an impact in the community.
• Logic models can spice up your formatting. Because they are graphics, logic models can break up blocks of text and allow potential funders to visualize your proposal in new ways.
• Logic models allow you to identify and address gaps in your project. You can collaborate internally to help push thinking and close the gap before the application is due.
• Logic models may be required. Some funders, especially federal funders, may require logic models as part of your application. If this is the case, you want to have one on hand and ready to update as needed.

Ultimately, nonprofit logic models help drive clarity, both for grant writers and funders. Sheleia likes to call them a visual blueprint of the program:
‍

“This step-by-step approach ensures that all elements are logically connected, making communicating the project's impact to funders easier. The template prompts organizations to think critically about each program component, creating a more coherent and persuasive narrative.”

What Are the Five Components of a Logic Model Template?

Logic models may seem intimidating, especially if you are starting with a blank page. 

However, there are just five core elements that you should focus on when learning how to make a logic model template.

• Inputs: What resources do you need to bring your project to life? Examples include staff, funding, equipment, community partnerships, etc.
• Activities: What are the core tasks and services that you’ll provide as part of your project? Examples could be research, training, and community development.
• Outputs: What are the results that you’re hoping to achieve as a result of the programming? These should be tangible and quantifiable (i.e., number of people trained, number of goods and services donated, etc.).
• Outcomes: What changes are you hoping to achieve over the next few years? This could be increased awareness, improved skills, changed perceptions, and more.
• Impact: What is your ultimate goal? This should reference the broader change that you want to make in the community or in society at large. Examples include reduced unemployment, increased access to food, etc.

Sheleia offers the following advice for grant writers who are using a logic model for the first time:
‍

“Focus on the core components of your program and the most direct relationships between them. Please don't feel overwhelmed by trying to include every detail!”

While Sheleia has designed a great grant logic model template that works, it’s not the only one out there. Below, we’ll explore other examples, as well as how to make your own logic model template to guide you through the process.

‍

Logic Model Examples

Let’s take a closer look at some logic model examples you can use in your grant writing. We’ll cover why each is a good example and key takeaways to help you understand their ideal use-cases.

‍

Theory Logic Model

‍

The theory logic model starts with an assumption. In this example from the Office of Astronomy for Development, it describes the underlying issue, which helps ground the funder more deeply in the problem from the writer’s perspective. This helps provide insight into how you are approaching the issue from a macro level, with more specific details shared within the proposal. 

Reader Takeaway: Use the theory logic model if you need to ground the funder in an assumption that directly influences the logic flow. 

‍

Program Action Logic Model

‍

Like the theory logic model, the program action logic model includes additional information to help paint a picture for potential funders. This example from the Minnesota Department of Health starts by explaining the situation at hand, as well as any priority focus areas. It also includes assumptions and external factors that can impact the project as well.

Reader Takeaway: Use the program action logic model if you want to add context about the situation so potential funders have a complete understanding of why you are proposing this project.

‍

Custom Logic Model

‍

You can get creative in how you illustrate your grant logic model, like the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. They split theirs out based on the type of change and then segment the outcomes based on those categorizations. They visualize overlap with arrows, with all leading to the same end game.

Reader Takeaway: If certain categories don’t work for you, rename them or illustrate them in a different way. Take creative liberties in your logic model where it makes sense—you don’t have to stick to a format or template if it doesn’t make sense for your organization.

‍

How to Create a Logic Model Template for Grants

You can create your own logic model template using various free and paid resources, including:

• Canva: Search for logic model templates on Canva to view infographic options that you can customize.
• PowerPoint: Create a flowchart using Smart Art as the basis for your logic model.
• Word: Manually add and connect shapes for your logic model template in Word. You can also integrate Smart Art as you would in PowerPoint or insert a table.
• Excel: Manually add your information in columns for your logic model template in Excel. You can add headers, borders, and backgrounds to help frame each step to make it easier to read.
• Google Docs: Create a logic model template on Google Docs by inserting a drawing. You will be able to add shapes, arrows, and text to help connect your model.

While you can create your own, that doesn’t mean you have to. The easiest way to make a logic model template for your nonprofit is to use a template that’s already been developed.

Sheila put together a fantastic template that’s available at the top of the article. After you download it, you can get started adding your information rather than wasting time fretting over the design.

‍

Wrapping Up: Grant Logic Models

While a logic model may not be required for every grant proposal, you should create one to help you and your organization get grounded in the various inputs needed to drive successful outcomes and maximize impact. That clarity will help you win more grant funding.

In this article, we shared:

• An overview of logic models and why they are important
• The various components of a successful logic model
• Examples of successful logic models and a template you can use to get started
• Information on how you can create your own

Sign up for a free 14-day trial of Instrumentl to start finding good-fit funding for your nonprofit today!