Making the Case for Logic Models in Nonprofit Work

In the nonprofit world, we’re often balancing big missions with tight budgets, all while being accountable to funders, boards, and the communities we serve. That’s why clear planning and measurable impact are so critical. One tool that helps bring it all together? The logic model.

What Is a Logic Model?

At its core, a logic model is a visual roadmap. It shows the connection between your organization’s resources, the work you do, and the results you hope to achieve. Think of it as a story—told in boxes and arrows—of how your programs create change.

A basic logic model includes:

Inputs: What you invest (staff, funding, volunteers, partnerships)
Activities: What you do (trainings, events, services)
Outputs: What you produce (number of workshops held, clients served)
Outcomes: What changes (knowledge gained, behaviors changed, systems improved)
Impact: The long-term, big-picture difference you’re working toward

Why Use a Logic Model?

Clarity & FocusLogic models help everyone—from staff to funders—get on the same page about your goals and how you plan to reach them.
Better Program DesignBy mapping out your assumptions and strategies, you can easily spot gaps, redundancies, or unclear steps in your programming.
Evaluation Made EasierWant to measure your impact? A logic model helps define what to measure and when. It becomes the backbone for your evaluation plan.
Stronger Grant ProposalsFunders love logic models. They show that your nonprofit is thinking strategically, tracking outcomes, and building evidence for what works.
Improved CommunicationWhether you're training new staff or pitching your work to donors, logic models offer a clear and compelling way to explain your approach.

When to Create One

Logic models are especially useful when:

Starting a new program
Revising an existing one
Applying for a major grant
Planning for evaluation or scaling

Getting Started

You don’t need fancy software to build a logic model. Start with a whiteboard, a Google Doc, or a template like this one:

Inputs	Activities	Outputs	Outcomes	Impact
Funding, staff, partners	Workshops, outreach, services	# of sessions, # of people reached	Increased knowledge, improved skills	Stronger communities, reduced disparities

Start with what you know. Then, refine over time with your team and stakeholders.

Final Thoughts

Logic models aren’t just planning tools—they’re living documents that evolve with your work. When used thoughtfully, they help nonprofits stay mission-focused, adaptive, and transparent. Whether you’re running a grassroots initiative or a multi-year grant program, a logic model can be one of the most valuable tools in your nonprofit toolkit.

Want help building a logic model for your organization? Drop a comment or get in touch—we’ve helped dozens of nonprofits turn their vision into action, one arrow at a time.