Theory of change vs logic model: which does your donor want?
Oct 07 2026 · Templates
They are not the same document, and donors ask for different ones. How to tell them apart, and how to produce whichever one is required.
A theory of change is a narrative if–then chain that explains why change happens and names the assumptions on each arrow. A logic model is a diagram of inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes and impact. Many donors want the logic model, usually as a logframe with indicators; many foundations and UN agencies want the theory of change. They are not competing documents. Build the theory of change first, then derive whichever format the donor asks for, so both carry identical numbers. Never maintain two separate versions — that is where proposals and reports start to contradict each other.
What is the difference between a theory of change and a logic model?
A theory of change is an argument. It sets out the if–then chain from activities to impact and writes the assumptions on the arrows between each step. A logic model is a diagram. It shows inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes and impact in sequence, without arguing the case for each step.
In practice the same programme produces both. The difference is what each one is for.
Keep reading — free.
Create an account to unlock the rest of this guide — the worked example, the tables and the checklists — and get The Bridge weekly. Already a member? Sign in.
You'll also get the free handbook by email. Unsubscribe anytime.
Written for M&E professionals. Not a guarantee of accuracy — always verify every claim against its source, and let a named human sign off. Get the free handbook.