What Does an Impact Report Look Like?
There’s no single format for an impact report. The best format depends on the audience and purpose. Below are three common—and effective—impact report examples.
Impact Report Example 1:
One-Page Visual Summary
Best used for:
Grant attachments with strict page limits
Board packets
Executive summaries
What it looks like:
A single page with headlines, charts, and callouts
3 - 5 key metrics
Minimal text
Why it works:
Funders and leaders can understand the core story in under five minutes
Impact Report Example 2:
Two-Page Narrative Report
Best used for:
Grant reports and renewals
Donor communications
Learning-focused funders
What it looks like:
Short sections with clear headings
Brief narrative paired with selected data
Includes context, findings, and next steps
Why it works:
It balances storytelling and evidence without overwhelming the reader.
Impact Report Example 3:
Data-Forward Impact Summary
Best used for:
Outcome-driven funders
Dashboards and evaluation updates
Strategically focused audiences
What it looks like:
Outcome metrics front and center
Short interpretation statements
Emphasis on change over time
Why it works:
It shows credibility while still explaining why the data matters
Turn Evaluation Into Action
If you’re wondering what this looks like in practice:
Download our Impact Report Template.
A framework to turn evaluation findings into funder-ready impact stories.
Schedule a discovery call to talk through how your evaluation findings could be turned into a clear, usable impact report.
