A project communications plan explains who needs information about the project, what they need to know, which channels will be used, who is responsible and how communication success will be measured.
UNDP Africa’s 2026–2029 communications playbook treats communications as part of programme delivery rather than something added after implementation. It emphasizes evidence-based content, stakeholder engagement and metrics that show what communication changed.
Start with audiences, not platforms
- Beneficiaries and communities.
- Government partners.
- Donors.
- Implementation partners.
- Media.
- Professional or sector audiences.
- Internal leadership.
Define the purpose of each communication
Some communication informs, some mobilizes participation, some reports progress, some manages risk and some supports learning. A project should not treat “visibility” as the only communications objective.
Use evidence-based messages
Project communications should distinguish verified results from expectations. Do not turn outputs into impact claims simply because a story needs to sound impressive.
Check donor visibility rules
Some awards require logos, acknowledgments, disclaimers or approval of public materials. Those rules should be captured in the communications plan from the beginning.
Measure more than publication volume
Track whether communication reached the intended audience and changed something meaningful: participation, awareness, partner action, referral, policy engagement or another project-relevant behavior.
Use the Grant Evidence Inventory to keep public impact claims traceable to supporting evidence.
Free Nonprofit Communication Plan Template
Turn audiences, messages, channels, responsibilities and measurement into a practical project communications plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every grant require a communications plan?
No, but many projects benefit from one even when it is not a formal attachment.
Should social media be included?
Only if it serves a defined audience and communication objective.
Who should approve donor-branded materials?
Follow the award’s visibility and approval rules.
Can beneficiary stories be used?
Yes, with appropriate consent, safeguarding and accuracy controls.
What is the biggest mistake?
Creating a channel calendar without defining audiences, purpose or evidence standards.
Conclusion
A strong communications plan supports project delivery, accountability and learning. Start with audiences and decisions, then choose messages and channels that are evidence-based and compliant with donor requirements.
