Clear and actionable objectives are essential to the vision and success of your nonprofit’s programs and projects. Of course, you know this—we’re just laying the groundwork for the info that’s coming.

Also, as grant writers, we must translate these objectives logically and explicitly into grant applications, so that our nonprofit can be awarded the funds needed to crush the objectives and transform lives! To do so, the most effective method for grant writers to use is the SMART framework.

But First: Objectives or Outcomes?

We want to note that sometimes folks find the differences between these grant-related terms confusing. For clarification, please see our blog on this topic. The bottom line, for our purposes in this blog, is that objectives are increments or building blocks of a larger, over-arching goal.

What Are SMART Objectives?

You might have heard about “SMART” before. It pops up in the nonprofit world regularly. “We strategized smart objectives to fulfill our mission,” or “We need to include smart objectives in our proposal.” Obviously, we want our objectives to be insightful, effective, and fitting. But did you realize that SMART is an acronym? Each letter in SMART helps us understand five qualities of sound objectives:

• Specific: Clearly state what you want to achieve. Use precise language and focus on a single action using a single verb.

• Measurable: Define how you will measure success. Use metrics, data, or benchmarks.

• Achievable: Ensure that your objective is logical and attainable with the available resources.

• Relevant/Realistic: Make sure your objective aligns with broader goals and is meaningful.

• Time-bound: Set a clear deadline or timeframe for achieving the objective.

For example, instead of drafting a vague objective like “Improve clients’ educational results,” a SMART objective might be: “Increase clients’ assessment scores to a 90% average by the end of this fiscal year.”

Why SMART Objectives Matter

SMART objectives transform vague ideas into defined, doablesteps. They prescribe a direction, clarifying how you will track progress, measure success, and make adjustments when necessary. Whether you are developing a strategic plan, managing a project, or designing a grant proposal, SMART objectives ensure that your efforts are focused and effective.

How to Write Effective SMART Objectives

1. Start with your intention: Begin broadly (e.g., “Enhance clients’ educations”).

2. Make it Specific: Define the exact results you want (e.g., “Increase clients’ assessment scores”).

3. Define the intended results so that they are Measurable: Attach a metric (e.g., “to a 90% average”).

4. Check for Achievability: Confirm that the objective is practical within your scope.

5. Verify Relevance/Realism: Make sure it aligns with your organizational mission and capabilities.

6. Set a Timeframe: Define when the objective should be reached (e.g., “by the end of this fiscal year”).

By applying the SMART framework, you will feel more organized, more concrete, and more prepared. You will be able to envision and define what you want to achieve in detail, as well as communicate your intentions clearly and successfully to prospective grantmakers.

Download our NEW 2025 SMART Objectives Toolkit.

Do you have a favorite or quintessential SMART objective that you have developed in the past for/with your organization? If you are willing to share, we’d love to see your example(s) in the comments! Or contact us with any questions you might have about SMART objectives you are working on. We’d love to hear about your experiences.