Effective project management starts with a clear, structured framework. This project plan template helps nonprofit leaders and project managers break down complex projects into manageable steps—defining who will do what, by when, while embedding equity and inclusion into the process.
Whether you’re managing a large-scale initiative or a smaller project, you can use this project plan template to:
- Clearly define roles and responsibilities.
- Break the project down into actionable steps.
- Create a timeline for completion with interim deadlines.
- Track progress on the project.
- Embed equity and inclusion into the planning process.
Learn more about project management by signing up for our Manage Successful Projects training package for managers and staff! Gain the confidence, strategies, and hands-on experience you need to deliver results and lead projects with impact.
Download Your Project Plan Template
We offer a full version (template & sample) and a simple version (template only) of this tool. Use the full version for complex projects that involve more people, streams of work, or overlapping timelines. For straightforward projects, opt for the simple version. Choose the format that works best for your project needs and download below.
Why Use a Project Plan Template?
A well-structured project plan template sets the foundation for successful execution. Especially when time and resources are limited, effective project management equips teams with the alignment and clarity they need to get strong results. Here’s how a project plan can empower leaders and teams:
- Align actions to project outcomes: Define what success looks like—what outcomes are you looking for? Connect each task and milestone to the broader goal.
- Streamline complexity: Break down complex projects into manageable, actionable tasks.
- Enhance team collaboration: Clarify roles and responsibilities with MOCHA, ensuring everyone is accountable for their contribution.
- Center equity and inclusion: Proactively embed choice points into the planning process, minimizing disparate impacts on marginalized teammates or stakeholders.
- Improve accountability: Set clear check-in points and progress markers to ensure follow-through.
How to Use the Project Plan Template
- Break down project components: List major streams of work in our Project Plan Template and break them down into actionable tasks. For example, if you’re launching a fundraising campaign, streams of work could include volunteer outreach, phonebanking sessions, and marketing materials.
- Define roles and responsibilities: Use our MOCHA framework to clarify who owns key tasks, provides input or support, or approves final decisions.
- Establish a timeline: Set start and end dates for each task. Identify key milestones and key performance indicators to keep your project moving forward.
- Track progress: Use the Project Plan Template to track task completion and note delays or challenges. Schedule regular check-ins to review progress and adjust plans as needed.
FAQs: Project Plan Templates
What should a project plan include?
A solid project plan should cover roles and responsibilities, streams of work, actionable steps, key milestones, timelines, stakeholders, and space for tracking progress. It should also include considerations for equity and inclusion.
How can the MOCHA framework enhance project planning?
MOCHA clarifies who is responsible for managing, owning, contributing to, and approving aspects of the project. It encourages each person to understand the importance of their contribution. This is especially important for progressive and education equity organizations that strive to collaborate, build coalitions, and seek perspective from impacted community members.
Tips for Successful Project Planning
Effective project planning is about more than deadlines—it’s about clarity, equity, and accountability. Here are three key tips to ensure your project plan is a success:
- Start with clear outcomes: Define what success looks like from the outset.
- Center equity: Use choice points to ensure you consider equity in your planning.
- Track progress: Set clear benchmarks and deadlines. Schedule regular check-ins to review progress and adjust plans as needed.
By following this guide and using our customizable templates, you’ll be equipped to lead projects that are organized, inclusive, and effective—no matter the complexity.
Ready to streamline your next project? Download your project plan template today and set your team up for success.
The Management Center is a 501c3 organization that helps leaders working for social change build equitable, sustainable, and results-driven organizations via trainings coaching, and online resources and tools.