Way Cooler Than You Might Think NEEDS STATEMENTS Way Cooler Than You Might Think

What is a needs statement? Um, well — it’s a statement of what you need. But beyond that…

What is a needs statement? Typically part of a grant proposal Typically scored A multipurpose explanation of your project A map for proposal writing A guide for project planning A means for quality assurance

COOL STUFF ABOUT The needs statement Tells more than the abstract Explains why the grant should exist Explains the problem and the solution Can be as brief or as detailed as needed Supports the logic model and narrative

What is in a needs statement? Whatever the funder needs Whatever your organization needs Whatever your writing team needs

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS The problem can be solved or minimized. “For every 1,000 children who get measles, one or two will die from it.” “Only 83% of two-year olds in Florida are immunized against measles. “Only 76% of kindergartners at Jonas Salk Elementary school are immunized.”

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS The data are relevant, authentic, and recent.

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS Prior efforts and results are described.

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS The solution directly addresses the problem. “Our District’s graduation rate was only 77% in 2016.” “Our project will provide tutoring for all fifth- graders who read below grade level.”

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS The rational for the solution is compelling.

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS The logic is linear instead of circular. “Our school does not have a full-time school nurse.” “Therefore, this project will fund a school nurse.”

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS The goals and outcomes are SMART.

HOW TO write GREAT NEED STATEMENTS The problem is solvable. The data are relevant, authentic, and recent. Prior efforts and results are described. The solution directly addresses the problem. The rational for the solution is compelling. The logic is linear instead of circular. The goals and outcomes are SMART.

Way Cooler Than You Might Think NEEDS STATEMENTS Way Cooler Than You Might Think