Narrative & Score

Executive Summary Scaffold

A template structure for writing compelling executive summaries that stand alone.

Executive Summary Scaffold

Use this structure to write executive summaries that reviewers can understand in 30-60 seconds.

Structure

Opening (1-2 sentences)

What: State the problem or need clearly and concisely.

Example:

“Rural communities in [region] lack access to affordable mental health services, resulting in higher rates of untreated conditions and emergency room visits.”

Your Solution (2-3 sentences)

What: Describe your proposed program or project.

Example:

“We propose to establish a mobile mental health clinic that will serve [number] residents across [geographic area] over [timeline]. The program will provide [key services] delivered by [staff/partners].”

Why You (2-3 sentences)

What: Establish credibility and competitive advantage.

Example:

“[Organization] has [X years] of experience serving [target population] and has successfully implemented similar programs in [locations]. Our team includes [key qualifications], and we have strong partnerships with [partners].”

Outcomes & Impact (2-3 sentences)

What: Describe measurable results and long-term impact.

Example:

“Over [timeline], we will serve [number] individuals, achieve [specific outcomes], and demonstrate [measurable impact]. This project will [long-term benefit] and serve as a model for [broader application].”

Request (1 sentence)

What: State the funding request clearly.

Example:

“We request $[amount] over [timeline] to support [key activities], with [match/leverage] from [sources].”

Full Example

Rural communities in [region] lack access to affordable mental health services, resulting in higher rates of untreated conditions and emergency room visits.

We propose to establish a mobile mental health clinic that will serve 500 residents across three counties over 24 months. The program will provide individual counseling, group therapy, and crisis intervention delivered by licensed clinicians and peer support specialists.

[Organization] has 15 years of experience serving rural populations and has successfully implemented similar programs in [locations]. Our team includes licensed clinical social workers and certified peer specialists, and we have strong partnerships with local health departments and community centers.

Over 24 months, we will serve 500 individuals, achieve a 70% completion rate for treatment plans, and demonstrate a 40% reduction in emergency room visits for mental health crises. This project will establish a sustainable model for rural mental health delivery and serve as a replicable approach for other underserved communities.

We request $250,000 over 24 months to support staff salaries, mobile unit operations, and program materials, with $50,000 in-kind match from partner organizations.

Tips

  1. Write this last—it should summarize your strongest points.
  2. Keep it under 300 words—reviewers scan quickly.
  3. Use active voice—“We will serve” not “Services will be provided.”
  4. Be specific—numbers, timelines, and concrete details.
  5. Stand alone—if a reviewer only reads this, they should understand your proposal.

This scaffold is part of Wellridge Advisory’s resource library. For more tools and templates, visit wellridgeadvisory.com/resources.