Examples of strong smart objectives for nonprofits
Once nonprofits understand the SMART framework, the next step is learning how to apply it in real program objectives. SMART objectives help funders quickly understand what an organization plans to achieve, how success will be measured, and when results will be delivered. Clear objectives strengthen both program planning and grant proposals.
Why SMART objectives matter for nonprofits
Once you have a grasp on the acronym SMART and how it relates to developing strong objectives, it’s time to put that knowledge to work. Often, it helps to have concrete examples to draw from.
SMART objectives support stronger proposals because they are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This clarity helps funders assess feasibility and makes evaluation and reporting easier once funding is awarded.
Five SMART objective examples for nonprofits
Here are five examples of SMART objectives for nonprofits that using the SMART criteria effectively.
SMART objective example 1
By June 2014, serve 10,000 meals after school to fourth graders in the service area.
Notice how we’ve attached specific criteria and attached a timeline to the eventual target of serving 10,000 meals.
This example demonstrates how clear numbers and deadlines make objectives easier to understand and evaluate.
SMART objective example 2
By the end of the first year, at least 50% of children in the program will see their test scores improve by at least one letter grade.
In this example, we’ve used “at least” to set a floor for the target — it’s always a good idea to make room for exceeding your objectives.
This approach shows how nonprofits can set measurable expectations while allowing room for stronger outcomes.
SMART objective example 3
At the program’s completion, at least 70% of participants will report gaining an understanding of how to save money each month as measured by pre- and post- surveys.
Here we’ve listed how exactly we’re going to measure whether the objective was met. This isn’t always necessary if you have a separate section in your grant on measuring your objectives. But, it can help clarify your activities a bit.
Including the evaluation method strengthens accountability and transparency.
SMART objective example 4
By the end of year two of the project, organization staff will have delivered STI-prevention curricula to 75 percent of school districts.
Again, adding a time frame for the completion of the work is critical. And, be sure to check that the objective aligns with your narrative in terms of delivery timeline.
This example highlights how objectives must match program scope and pacing.
SMART objective example 5
Within five years, the proposed intervention will reduce pedestrian deaths in the service area by 40 percent, according to police and hospital data.
This example uses long-term, measurable community-level data to demonstrate impact beyond immediate program outputs.
How these examples support strong grant writing
Hopefully these examples of SMART objectives for nonprofits give you a better understanding of how to write strong objectives that also fit the SMART criteria — it’s actually pretty simple.
Strong SMART objectives help funders see a clear connection between activities, outcomes, and evaluation. They reinforce consistency across the narrative, work plan, and reporting strategy, which increases reviewer confidence.
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