Teaching Paper: Glossary of Key Terms in Grant Reporting and Evaluation – Building a Shared Language for Non-Profit Practice

This Teaching Paper presents a glossary of more than 30 essential terms used in non-profit grant reporting and program evaluation. It provides clear definitions and practical notes, ensuring consistent understanding across organizations, funders, and stakeholders. By standardizing language, the glossary strengthens accountability, prevents misinterpretation, and enhances transparency in reporting. Drawing on the work of Bryson, Drucker, and Patton, the glossary situates key concepts within academic discourse while adapting them for practice. A case study demonstrates how adopting shared terminology improved donor–NGO collaboration, while reflection questions encourage readers to evaluate their own organizational language use. This resource serves as both a teaching tool and a practical framework for building credibility and supporting high-quality reporting.