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A theory of change describes a process of planned social change, from the assumptions that guide its design to the long-term goals it seeks to achieve. Grant makers who have created theories of change explain that having a theory helps them and their grantees draw logical connections between activities and outcomes. It helps them to articulate exactly what propositions and assumptions their work is testing — and therefore what they should be assessing in their evaluation plan.
This Content Collection features guides and examples for family foundations and others seeking to create a Theory of Change for their philanthropic strategies.
Please see the NCFP Content Collections on Systems Change and Strategic Philanthropy for related information and resources.
Start Here
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Theory of Change, Monitoring, and Evaluation: Understanding an Organization’s Activities, Outcomes, and Impact
Tool![](https://www.ncfp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Making-Change-Happen-317x177.png)
Making Change Happen: Creating an Outcome-Based Strategy
Report![](https://www.ncfp.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/cognitive-traps-how-shortcuts-cut-us-short-cognitive-traps-in-philanthropic-decision-making.jpg)
How shortcuts cut us short: Cognitive traps in philanthropic decision making
Report![](https://www.ncfp.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Intended-Impact-chart-317x177.png)
What Are Intended Impact and Theory of Change and How Can Nonprofits Use Them?
Report![](https://www.ncfp.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/moving-beyond-317x177.png)
Moving Beyond Theories of Change: A Framework for Strategic Implementation
ReportCase Study of the Tauck Family Foundation
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