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KnowledgeBases > The Writing Successful Grants KnowledgeBase > Element 4 > Activity 2 > Task 3: Write the Need/Problem Statement

Guideline:

The need or problem statement should offer a focused description of the problem the proposed project addresses  and how it will do so. The explanation should demonstrate a logical process was applied to identify the need and define the project. Including references related to research and other successful projects may be helpful in supporting the need.

Keep in mind the proposal may be competing against many projects with equally critical needs. Therefore, consider these questions when formulating the project need statement. Why should your project be funded over the competition? What makes your project stand out? What is the emotion within your project that when blended with the facts will sell your ideas? What would be the "gotcha" statement that convinces a reviewer to fund your project?

Checklists Great Buzz Words to Use in a Grant Proposal

This list offers great buzz words to include in the grant proposal as appropriate.

Tools Sample Needs Statement

This document contains an example of a needs statement adapted from samples provided by Dr. Wanda Riesz, Director Grant Writing & Resource Development, Indianapolis (Indiana) Public Schools.

References Needs Assessment

The needs assessment is one of four key parts of project proposal. This document identifies the four components of a needs assessment and what it should address.

References Plain Language _EXTERNAL_LINK

This link to the Plain Language.gov website provides information and resources related to the federal government’s to improve communication with the public. Grant seekers submitting federal grant proposals may find its content useful. Other grant seekers may find its content useful when submitting proposal to other grant funders.

References Proposal Writing Short Course _EXTERNAL_LINK

This Foundation Center resource offers a self paced tutorial on the proposal writing process.

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Next: Task 4: Write the Goals and Objectives Previous: Task 2: Write the Proposal Abstract


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