center for social creativity
Grant Writing: Needs Statements
start
Introduction
Click on the buttons below to understand the layout of this training, what will be covered, and a view of all trainings available.
Layout
Content
Trainings
Grant Writing Needs Statements
Alignment with funder
Components
Describing the problem
Reader friendly
Using data and evidence
Example
Establishing urgency
Components
all of the different parts
A grant needs statement is a crucial part of a grant proposal, as it explains why your project or program is necessary and deserves funding. A compelling needs statement should be clear, concise, evidence-based, and emotionally resonant.
components of a needs statement
Each grantor will have varying requirements for your needs statement. And they may call it something different. Yet, the strongest proposals include all of these elements.
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Clear description of the problem
Connect the problem to your organization
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Align with the funder's goals
Use data and evidence
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Keep it reader friendly
Establish urgency
Additional Resources
effectiveness
More background on the various components
Statement of need
Needs statement using varying language
supportive evidence
Strategies to gain your needs statement evidence
impact
Describing your program impact
Describing the Problem
telling your story using strengths-based lens
strategies I
Strategies II
strengths based approach
emphasize potential for growth & change
Your project is addressing a real need. But, marginalization continues until you place yourself in the position of highlighting the strengths of your community and solution.
"With their strong work ethic and creative problem solving, the students in our program are well positioned to excel in environmental fields. By removing a lack of resources we can create leaders for tomororw."
Acknowledge Past Successes or Progress
frame the problem as an opportunity
"In the past year, our pilot program increased student engagement by 35%, proving that with access to interactive and culturally releven education, our youth can thrive."
"While our community is rich in cultural diversity and home to a vibrant youth population, limited access to after-school environmental programs hinders students from reaching potential."
strategies I
Strategies II
strengths based approach
Integrate Data with Strengths
Your project is addressing a real need. But, marginalization continues until you place yourself in the position of highlighting the strengths of your community and solution.
"Although 60% of families in our area face economic hardship, 85% of parents expressed a strong desire to support their children's education but lack resources to do so."
Inspire action through positivity
focus on collaboration & community assets
Our community has rallied around initiatives to improve educational access, with over 200 volunteers contributing to local programs. With your support we can scale these efforts."
"Our partnership with local schools and libraries demonstrates the community's commitment to providing students with learning opportunities. With expansion, we bridge the divide."
strengths based problem statement template
identify a challenge as a barrier to success
highlight opportunity for growth
start with strengths
"Our community is known for [strengths/assets], and its members have consistently demonstrated [positive attribute or action]."
"By addressing [specific challenge], we can [specific positive outcome], building on the existing strengths of the community."
"However, [challenge] limits [specific potential]."
Additional Resources
Perfecting
Further instruction on perfecting your problem statement.
finding strengths
How to assess your organizational strengths.
Focusing on strengths
Sustaining community by identifying strengths.
describing community
Tips on how to describe yours.
Using Data & Evidence
Justifying your problem identification
Using data & evidence in grant needs statements strengthens your argument by providing credibility and demonstrating a thorough understanding of the problem. Funders are more likely to support projects backed by clear, well-documented data that illustrates the scope, urgency, and potential impact of your program.
Overview of Data Guide
Quantitative Data
Qualitative Data
Comparative Data
Relevant Research & Reports
Compare your population or the region to state, national, or global averages.
Use numbers to quantify the issue (i.e. percentages, rates, averages).
Share case studies and/or testimonials.
Use findings from academic studies, government or industry reports..
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Quantitative Data
Introduction to the purpose and use of quantitative description.
Do not forget to talk about your community's assets and strengths! We believe that asset-first reporting is using data to promote justice and equity.
Quantitative data can help tell the story of your community for your grant needs statement. Quantitative data is meant to show the gaps of resources, including historical and structural oppression. These data should balance environmental considerations, along with its impact on humans.
Quantitative Data Rationale
How does this help your need statement?
Objective measurement
Needs prioritization
Establish baseline
Inform decisions
Identification of trends
Resource allocation
Data Considerations
using data responsibly
data equity & Stewardship
Interpreting data in an inclusive context requires a thoughtful approach to ensure that insights are meaningful and actionable.
Use inclusive language.
Understand an equity framework.
Be aware of bias.
Disaggregate data.
Seek diverse perspectives.
Contextualize findings.
Communicate responsibly.
Engage stakeholders.
Evaluate impact.
Focus on equity gaps.
National Data Sources
measuring health & environmental measures
BLS
County Health Rankings
CDC Env.
CDC PLACES
HealthData
Dept. Commerce
US Census
Yale Env.
ACS
NCEI
Headwaters
International Data
measuring health & environmental measures
Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development
United Nations Environment Statistics
World Bank Open Data
US Energy Information Administration
State Data
North Dakota
measuring health & environmental measures
Montana
South Dakota
Wyoming
Utah
Colorado
Quantitative Data Visualization: Example
Presenting in a visually engaging will capture the attention of your grant reviewer. Click on the picture to be taken to an example.
Qualitative Data
Introduction to the purpose and use of qualitative data.
Qualitative data are are just as important, if not more, than the quantitative data sets. Telling the story through community member validation and lived experience allows the reader to truly identify with your project's overall goals and vision.
Remember to lead with your community's strengths! An asset-first approach will show that you can accomplish your goals while leaning on the community's strengths.
Depth of Understanding
Contextual Factors
Community Engagement
Provides rich, detailed insights into the community's experiences, perspectives, and values, helping to understand the underlying reasons behind issues.
Uncover the social, cultural, and economic contexts that influence community needs, which quantitative data might overlook.
Fosters engagement and empowerment, ensuring their voices are heard and valued in the decision-making process.
Qualitative Assessment: Rationale
Nuanced Needs
Flexibility
Program Design Richness
Adapt as new themes and issues emerge during the assessment process, providing a more dynamic understanding of community needs.
Inform the development of more effective, culturally relevant interventions and services that resonate with community members.
Reveal specific needs and priorities that may not be evident through quantitative measures, allowing for a more tailored approach.
Qualitative Assessment Rationale
Surveying your community with responsibility and intentionality
Community Context
Diverse Perspectives
Clear Objectives
Question Clarity
Question Types
Response Formats
Confidentiality
Accessibility
Distribution
Ethics
Data Analysis
Survey Length
Qualitative Assessment: Demographics
Consideration when asking demographic questions.
Understanding Context
Asking participants for their demographic information can be beneficial to fully understand the nuances of your community's needs. Some of the benefits are detailed here. However, you must also take into consideration some ethics associated with asking demographic information.
Benchmarking
Identifying Dispartities
Engaging Stakeholders
Tailoring Programs
Qualitative Data Visualization: Example
Presenting in a visually engaging will capture the attention of your grant reviewers. Click on the picture to be taken to an example.
Final Data Tips
data gaps
Tailoring data
Balance Data
Balance your data with narrative.
Tailor data to the funder.
Address any data gaps.
Additional Resources
incorporating research
How to incorporate your data in your needs statement.
importance of data
Additional ideas on data sources
the rationale
More reasons to use data in your needs statements.
amplify your writing
Using data as a complement to your story.
Establish Urgency
Justifying the importance of your work
Establishing Urgency
practical applications
Immediate Consequences
Time-Sensitive Opportunities
Escalating Trends
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Establishing Urgency
practical applications
Emotional Appeals
External Factors
Path to Impact
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Establishing Urgency
practical applications
Projections to the Future
Funders' Goals
Reinforce Your Call
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Additional Resources
Using tone
Make sure your words count.
stand out
Distinguish yourself with a sense of urgency.
inspire
Inspire the funder as a partner.
ramp it up
Activate your funder to be part of the solution.
Alignment with Funder
create a funding partner
Funder Alignment
essential considerations
Additional Resources
appeals
Creating a strong funder appeal.
for rural
Be appealing throughout your proposal.
denial
In case you get denied...
enhance your appeal
Perfect your language.
Keeping it Reader Friendly
remember your human reader
Reader Friendly
Structure Readability
Clear & Concise Language
Use these tips that combine the learnings from all needs statement sections.
Relatable Examples
Active Voice
Test for Simplicity
Strengths Based Language
Inspire Action
Simplify Data
Example
To help you craft the perfect statement
Needs Statement Example
protecting urban greenspaces to preserve ecological health
funder alignment
Establish urgency
data & evidence
the problem
Thank you for learning with us!
"live as if you were to die tomorrow. learn as if you were to live forever."~ Mahatma gandhi
Trainings Available
We are regularly adding to our curriculum. So, if you don't see one that you need, let your CRES know!
Organizational Development
- Strategic planning & project planning
- Organizational lifecycles
- Organizational structure
- Leadership development
Grants
- Prospecting
- Relationship building
- Grant writing
- Grant submission
- Grants management
- Funding strategies
Policy Influence
- The role of associations
- How to impact policy & building social capital
- Nonprofit policy rules and latitudes
- The social network analysis
- Statute versus legislation
Comparative Data: Example
"The unemployment rate in our region is 12%, significantly higher than the national average of 4% (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023)."
Reinforce the Call to Action
End your needs statement with a compelling appeal that motivates the funder to act now.Example: "Your support today can change the trajectory of an entire generation, ensuring that every child in our community has the chance to enjoy nature. Delaying action will mean lost opportunities that we cannot afford."
Tailor Data to Funder
Align with Their Priorities: Use data that connects to the funder's goal or focus areas. Example: "As an organization committed to advancing environmental equity, you may find it significant that our community has an asthma rate of 40% higher than the state average (CDC, 2023)." Highlight Return on Investment (ROI): Show funders how their support will achieve measurable outcomes. Example: "Every $1 invested in our program yields $4 economic benefit to the community by increasing employability."
Personalize the Call to Action
Involve the Funder as a Partner: Position them as a key ally in addressing the need.Appeal to Their Legacy: Highlight how their funding will create lasting change.
Show Escalating Trends
Demonstrate Worsening Conditions: Provide data showing how the problem has grown over time and will continue to do so without intervention. Example: "In the past five years, our community asthma rates have doubled, and without immediate action, projections indicate another 30% increase by 2026." Point to New Challenges: Highlight emerging issues that require swift action. Example: "The recent closure of the only grocery has left 15,000 residents without access to food access."
Use Emotional Appeals
Humanize the Impact: Share stories or testimonials that illustrate how the problem directly impacts individuals.Example: "Maria, a single mother of three, faces eviction because she only earns $1,200 from her full time agricultural job, far below the livable wage in our country. Without immediate support, her children's future is at risk." Evoke Empathy and Action: Use evocative language to emphasize the stakes.
Example: "Every day, three more agricultural families in our community fall below the poverty line, and each delay in funding means lost opportunities to break the cycle."
Use Time-Sensitive Opportunities
Window of Action: Emphasize that funding is needed now to capitalize on a unique moment or condition. Example: "With new state legislation allocating resources to rural infrastructure, this is the pivotal time to expand our utility programs and ensure our community receives equitable access to funding." Season or Cyclical Issues: Show how the problem is tied to a specific timeframe. Example: "As fire season approaches, funding is critical to equip our shelters and train new volunteers."
Connect the problem to your organization
- Capacity to Solve the Problem: Demonstrate that your organization is uniquely qualified to address the issue due to experience, experience, past success, and/or integration in the community.
- Track Record: Highlight any relevant programs or accomplishments that show your ability to make an impact.
- Example: "Our organization has successfully implemented after-school environmental programs in neighboring counties, resulting in 20% increase in students pursuing higher education in environmental fields."
Integrate Data with Strengths
- Show Capacity for Resilience: Combine data on challenges with evidence or resilience or untapped potential.
- Balance Challenges and Assets: Use data to illustrate where opportunity exists rather than simply outlining deficits.
Establish urgency
- Timelines: Explain why this problem needs to be addressed now.
- Consequences of Inaction: Describe the potential negative outcomes if the problem is not resolved.
- Example: "Without intervention, the local dropout rate is projected to increase by 15% over the next five years, leading to a significant rise in unemployment and poverty."
Informed Decision-Making: It supports evidence-based decision-making, ensuring that strategies and interventions are grounded in reliable data rather than assumptions or anecdotal evidence.
Align with the funder's goals
- Show Shared Vision: Articulate how your project supports the funder's mission, values, or priorities.
- Highlight Mutual Benefits. Emphasize how funding your project will help achieve shared outcomes.
- Example: "This project aligns with your foundation's mission to promote educational equity and empower underserved youth, while increasing the future workforce in environmental justice.
Use data and evidence
- Quantitative Data: Include statistics, research findings, and relevant reports to substantiate your claims.
- Qualitative Data: Add personal stories, testimonials, or case studies to humanize the issue.
- Sources: Use credible, up-to-date sources (e.g. government reports, academic studies). It is not always necessary to cite your source, unless indicated by the funder.
- Example: "According to the National Center for Education Statistics (2023), students in underserved communities score 25% lower in math and reading proficiency."
Inspire Action Through Positivity
- Showcase the Community's Vision: Share how the community or population has already begun to envision or work toward solutions.
- Invite Funders to Join the Journey: Position the grant as a way for the funder to empower an already thriving community.
Emphasize Potential for Growth & Change
- Focus on What is Possible: Discuss how solving the problem will amplify the strengths already present in the community.
- Use Aspirational Language: Inspire funders by focusing on positive outcomes that could result from their investment.
Use Projections for Forward-Looking
Highlight the Cost of Delay: Show how costs or challenges will increase over time without intervention.Example: "Every year of inaction on repairing our community's water infrastructure results in an additional $500,000 in damages and growing risk of health crises." Point to Preventable Losses: Frame the grant as an investment that avoids future harm or expense. Example: "Early intervention programs for fire risk save $7 for every $1 spent by spraying trees for beetles."
Research the Funder Thoroughly
Mission and Vision: Understand the funder’s overarching mission, vision, and strategic priorities. Funding Areas: Review their past grants to identify common themes, target populations, or geographic areas. Key Phrases and Language: Use terminology from the funder’s website, guidelines, or annual reports to reflect their values.
Optional but recommended: Include a Call to Action End your needs statement with a forward-looking note that sets the stage for your proposed solution. Example: "This grant will enable us to expand our proven programs to address these urgent challenges and improve outcomes for hundreds of at-risk youth in our community."
Balance Data with Narrative
Avoid Overloading with Numbers: Integrate data into your story to make it meaningful rather than listing statistics. Connect to Human Impact: Pair data points with real-world implications or personal stories. Example: "While 65% of adults in our community lack access to high-speed internet, students like John rely on limited public Wi-Fi, putting them at a significant academic advantage.
Overview
Content to be covered
This training will provide you with an understanding of how to approach proposal needs statements with confidence. This module covers:
- What should be included
- Balancing data with stories
- How to follow a grantor's requirements.
Anticipate Their Concerns
Address potential doubts funders may have, such as scalability, feasibility, or alignment with their criteria.
Focus on Collaboration & Community Assets
- Leverage Partnerships: Mention existing collaborations, community groups, or stakeholders working toward similar goals.
- Empowerment over Dependence: Frame the issue as something the community can address with the right support, not something they are powerless to change.
Frame the Problem as an Opportunity
- Highlight Existing Strengths: Start by recognizing the resources, resilience, or progress within the target population or community.
- Position Challenges as Barriers to Future Success: Instead of presenting the community as lacking, describe how addressing the issue will help unlock their full potential.
Informed Decision-Making: It supports evidence-based decision-making, ensuring that strategies and interventions are grounded in reliable data rather than assumptions or anecdotal evidence.
Highlight Shared Outcomes
Mutual Benefits: Show how your project’s success contributes to the funder’s broader objectives. Use Metrics That Matter to Them: Incorporate measurable outcomes that reflect the funder’s priorities.
Qualitative Data
Examples
Case Studies: "Maria, a single mother of three, struggles to find affordable childcare, limiting her ability to work and support her family." Testimonials: "One parent noted, 'Without after-school programs, I worry my kids will fall behind their peers academically and socially."
Address Their Investment Interests
Show Return on Investment (ROI): Frame the grant as a high-impact investment. Demonstrate Sustainability: If the funder values long-term impact, highlight how your project will sustain itself after their funding ends.
Reflect Their Values in Your Language
Social Justice and Equity: If the funder prioritizes equity, emphasize how your program serves marginalized or underserved populations.Innovation: If they value innovation, describe how your project offers a novel solution to a persistent challenge. Community Involvement: If community engagement is important to the funder, showcase your partnerships and participatory approach.
Prioritization of Needs: Quantitative data helps prioritize needs by providing evidence on the severity and urgency of various SDOH issues. This allows decision-makers to focus resources where they are most needed.
Demonstrate Credibility & Capacity
Show Your Readiness: Reinforce that your organization is well-positioned to achieve the funder’s goals.Evidence of Past Success: Share examples of measurable outcomes from your previous work that align with the funder’s objectives.
This section pulls together all the learnings from previous sections. Use these tips as a checklist to ensure you provide the strongest needs statement!
How to use this training
Method of learning. The training may be facilitated by your CRES and/or as a self-study tool. Navigation. Click on the links in the beginning of each section if you'd like a targeted understanding of a certain subject. Additional resources. At the end of each section, you'll find links to further learnings, if you want to go deeper. For each topic. Each topic contains definitions, practical applications, the pros and cons, and additional resources.
Incorporate Funders' Goals
Align Urgency with Their Mission: Show how funding your project meets their priorities while addressing time-sensitive needs.Example: "This project aligns with your commitment to promoting clean water. Immediate funding will ensure that students in our district are healthy while drinking clean water in our schools."
Objective Measurement: Quantitative data provides objective and measurable evidence of the needs, conditions, and resources within a community. This helps in minimizing biases that can arise from subjective assessments.
Quantitative Data
Examples
Statistics: "In our county, 42% of children under age five live in poverty, compared to the national average of 18% (US Census Bureau, 2023)." Trends: "Over the past decade, high school dropout rates in our district have risen by 25%, often due to transportation barriers (Department of Education, 2023)."
Relevant Research & Reports
"According to the National Literacy Project, students who participate in nature reading program improve their reading proficiency by 15%."
Directly Connect to Their Priorities
Explicitly State the Alignment: Clearly explain how your project fits within the funder’s focus areas. Tailor the Framing of the Problem: Emphasize aspects of the issue that match the funder’s goals.
Address Data Gaps
If data are unavailable, especially in rural areas, acknowledge it and explain how your project will help fill these gaps. Example: "Currently, there is limited data on the long-term effects of environmental literacy programs in rural areas. By implementing this project, we will collect and analyze data to better inform future efforts.
Baseline Establishment: It allows for the establishment of baseline metrics, enabling stakeholders to compare current conditions against future outcomes. This is essential for tracking progress and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
Show a Clear Path to Impact
Demonstrate Readiness: Prove that your organization is prepared to act immediately with the necessary support. Example: "Our team has already secured partnerships with local farms, ensuring we can launch our program within 30 days of receiving funding." Highlight Tangible Benefits: Explain how the funding will lead to measurable and timely outcomes. Example: "With this grant, we can provide 500 underserved children access to after-school meals by the start of the next academic year."
Leverage External Factors
Policy Changes: Reference new legislation or funding opportunities that require immediate action. Example: "Without the upcoming federal funding deadline, this grant will ensure we can match required funds to expand community center services." Economic or Social Shifts: Highlight crises or trends driving the urgency. Example: "Raising inflation has doubled the cost of housing, making affordable housing initiatives more critical than ever for low-income families."
Reference Their Past Support
Acknowledge Their Impact: If the funder has supported similar projects, mention their contributions to the field.Draw Parallels: Connect your project to others they have funded to highlight alignment.
Highlight Immediate Consequences of Inaction
Quantify Potential Negative Outcomes: Use data to show how the situation will worsen if left unaddressed. Example: "Without intervention, the resident rate in our district is projected to decrease by 20%, leading to significant economic and social challenges. Describe the Ripple Effect: Explain how the problem affects not only the target population, but also the broader community, economy, or environment.
Example: "The rising rate of unemployment contributes to increased poverty, strain on social services, and long-term economic instability."
Strengths-Based Problem Statement
Using a strengths-based approach to describe a problem in a grant needs statement shifts the focus from solely highlighting deficiencies to emphasizing the potential, assets, and opportunities of the community or population. This approach aligns with funders who prioritize empowerment, equity, and capacity-building. Keep going to learn how to incorporate this perspective effectively.
Keep it reader friendly
- Avoid Jargon and Acronyms: Write in plain language for clarity and accessibility. Avoid using technical language, and assume that your reader knows nothing about your field or organization.
- Compelling and Concise: Use a mix of persuasive language and factual evidence, keeping it brief and focused. Your needs statement is the first change to grab the attention and heart of your reader.
A strong needs statement tells a story that connects the reader with the emotional need for your program.
Heart
A strong needs statement balances the heart with the head. Emotional stories are balanced with quantitative data.
Head
VS
Clear description of the problem
- Focus on the Need, Not the Solution. Articulate the specific issue your project addresses rather than the methods you plan to use to solve it. This will come later.
- Relevance: Show how the problem aligns with the grantor's mission and priorities.
- Population served: Define the target population, including demographic and geographic details. It is helpful if you can provide a brief story illustrating the community's need.
- Example: "In our rural community, 40% of children live below the poverty line, and 30% lack access to quality after-school programs, resulting in high dropout rates and juvenile crime."
Identification of Trends: Analyzing quantitative data helps identify trends over time, such as changes in disease prevalence, service utilization, or demographic shifts. This information can guide long-term planning and resource allocation.
Acknowledge Past Succes or Progress
- Show Momentum: Point to achievements or existing initiatives that demonstrate the community's ability to tackle challenges.
- Build on What Works: Highlight how your program will expand or enhance proven solutions.
Data & Evidence
Recent studies reveal that urban areas in the US lose approximately 175,000 acres of tree cover annually, equating to 36 million trees lost each year (US Forest Service). Locally, our city has seen 20% reduction in greenspace over the last decade, with a corresponding increase in heat island effects and air pollution levels exceeding EPA thresholds. Moreover, underserved communities are disproportionately affected, as they often lack access to shaded areas, clean air, and recreational spaces.
Establishing Urgency
If current trends persist, our city will lose an additional 10% of its remaining greenspaces by 2030. This loss would significantly amplify the risks associated with extreme weather events, including flooding and heatwaves, while diminishing residents' quality of life. Addressing the issue now is critical to reversing these trends and ensuring a healthier, more sustainable urban environment for future generations.
The Problem
Urban greenspaces are disappearing at an alarming rate due to rapid urbanization. These vital ecosystems, which include parks, wetlands, and community gardens, play a critical role in mitigating climate change, improving air and water quality, and supporting biodiversity. Without intervention, the continued loss of greenspaces threaten public health, ecological balance, and climate resilience in our communities.
Alignment with Funder
[Insert funder's name] has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental conservation and climate adaptation initiatives. This proposed program directly aligns with the funder's goal by promoting community-driven solutions to protect greenspaces, enhance urban tree capacity, and reduce climate vulnerabilities. Through strategic partnerships and evidence-based approaches, this initiative will advance both ecological preservation and equitable access to environmental benefits.
Grant Writing: Needs Statements
Melissa
Created on January 17, 2025
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Transcript
center for social creativity
Grant Writing: Needs Statements
start
Introduction
Click on the buttons below to understand the layout of this training, what will be covered, and a view of all trainings available.
Layout
Content
Trainings
Grant Writing Needs Statements
Alignment with funder
Components
Describing the problem
Reader friendly
Using data and evidence
Example
Establishing urgency
Components
all of the different parts
A grant needs statement is a crucial part of a grant proposal, as it explains why your project or program is necessary and deserves funding. A compelling needs statement should be clear, concise, evidence-based, and emotionally resonant.
components of a needs statement
Each grantor will have varying requirements for your needs statement. And they may call it something different. Yet, the strongest proposals include all of these elements.
+INFO
+INFO
Clear description of the problem
Connect the problem to your organization
+INFO
+INFO
Align with the funder's goals
Use data and evidence
+INFO
+INFO
Keep it reader friendly
Establish urgency
Additional Resources
effectiveness
More background on the various components
Statement of need
Needs statement using varying language
supportive evidence
Strategies to gain your needs statement evidence
impact
Describing your program impact
Describing the Problem
telling your story using strengths-based lens
strategies I
Strategies II
strengths based approach
emphasize potential for growth & change
Your project is addressing a real need. But, marginalization continues until you place yourself in the position of highlighting the strengths of your community and solution.
"With their strong work ethic and creative problem solving, the students in our program are well positioned to excel in environmental fields. By removing a lack of resources we can create leaders for tomororw."
Acknowledge Past Successes or Progress
frame the problem as an opportunity
"In the past year, our pilot program increased student engagement by 35%, proving that with access to interactive and culturally releven education, our youth can thrive."
"While our community is rich in cultural diversity and home to a vibrant youth population, limited access to after-school environmental programs hinders students from reaching potential."
strategies I
Strategies II
strengths based approach
Integrate Data with Strengths
Your project is addressing a real need. But, marginalization continues until you place yourself in the position of highlighting the strengths of your community and solution.
"Although 60% of families in our area face economic hardship, 85% of parents expressed a strong desire to support their children's education but lack resources to do so."
Inspire action through positivity
focus on collaboration & community assets
Our community has rallied around initiatives to improve educational access, with over 200 volunteers contributing to local programs. With your support we can scale these efforts."
"Our partnership with local schools and libraries demonstrates the community's commitment to providing students with learning opportunities. With expansion, we bridge the divide."
strengths based problem statement template
identify a challenge as a barrier to success
highlight opportunity for growth
start with strengths
"Our community is known for [strengths/assets], and its members have consistently demonstrated [positive attribute or action]."
"By addressing [specific challenge], we can [specific positive outcome], building on the existing strengths of the community."
"However, [challenge] limits [specific potential]."
Additional Resources
Perfecting
Further instruction on perfecting your problem statement.
finding strengths
How to assess your organizational strengths.
Focusing on strengths
Sustaining community by identifying strengths.
describing community
Tips on how to describe yours.
Using Data & Evidence
Justifying your problem identification
Using data & evidence in grant needs statements strengthens your argument by providing credibility and demonstrating a thorough understanding of the problem. Funders are more likely to support projects backed by clear, well-documented data that illustrates the scope, urgency, and potential impact of your program.
Overview of Data Guide
Quantitative Data
Qualitative Data
Comparative Data
Relevant Research & Reports
Compare your population or the region to state, national, or global averages.
Use numbers to quantify the issue (i.e. percentages, rates, averages).
Share case studies and/or testimonials.
Use findings from academic studies, government or industry reports..
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
Quantitative Data
Introduction to the purpose and use of quantitative description.
Do not forget to talk about your community's assets and strengths! We believe that asset-first reporting is using data to promote justice and equity.
Quantitative data can help tell the story of your community for your grant needs statement. Quantitative data is meant to show the gaps of resources, including historical and structural oppression. These data should balance environmental considerations, along with its impact on humans.
Quantitative Data Rationale
How does this help your need statement?
Objective measurement
Needs prioritization
Establish baseline
Inform decisions
Identification of trends
Resource allocation
Data Considerations
using data responsibly
data equity & Stewardship
Interpreting data in an inclusive context requires a thoughtful approach to ensure that insights are meaningful and actionable.
Use inclusive language.
Understand an equity framework.
Be aware of bias.
Disaggregate data.
Seek diverse perspectives.
Contextualize findings.
Communicate responsibly.
Engage stakeholders.
Evaluate impact.
Focus on equity gaps.
National Data Sources
measuring health & environmental measures
BLS
County Health Rankings
CDC Env.
CDC PLACES
HealthData
Dept. Commerce
US Census
Yale Env.
ACS
NCEI
Headwaters
International Data
measuring health & environmental measures
Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development
United Nations Environment Statistics
World Bank Open Data
US Energy Information Administration
State Data
North Dakota
measuring health & environmental measures
Montana
South Dakota
Wyoming
Utah
Colorado
Quantitative Data Visualization: Example
Presenting in a visually engaging will capture the attention of your grant reviewer. Click on the picture to be taken to an example.
Qualitative Data
Introduction to the purpose and use of qualitative data.
Qualitative data are are just as important, if not more, than the quantitative data sets. Telling the story through community member validation and lived experience allows the reader to truly identify with your project's overall goals and vision.
Remember to lead with your community's strengths! An asset-first approach will show that you can accomplish your goals while leaning on the community's strengths.
Depth of Understanding
Contextual Factors
Community Engagement
Provides rich, detailed insights into the community's experiences, perspectives, and values, helping to understand the underlying reasons behind issues.
Uncover the social, cultural, and economic contexts that influence community needs, which quantitative data might overlook.
Fosters engagement and empowerment, ensuring their voices are heard and valued in the decision-making process.
Qualitative Assessment: Rationale
Nuanced Needs
Flexibility
Program Design Richness
Adapt as new themes and issues emerge during the assessment process, providing a more dynamic understanding of community needs.
Inform the development of more effective, culturally relevant interventions and services that resonate with community members.
Reveal specific needs and priorities that may not be evident through quantitative measures, allowing for a more tailored approach.
Qualitative Assessment Rationale
Surveying your community with responsibility and intentionality
Community Context
Diverse Perspectives
Clear Objectives
Question Clarity
Question Types
Response Formats
Confidentiality
Accessibility
Distribution
Ethics
Data Analysis
Survey Length
Qualitative Assessment: Demographics
Consideration when asking demographic questions.
Understanding Context
Asking participants for their demographic information can be beneficial to fully understand the nuances of your community's needs. Some of the benefits are detailed here. However, you must also take into consideration some ethics associated with asking demographic information.
Benchmarking
Identifying Dispartities
Engaging Stakeholders
Tailoring Programs
Qualitative Data Visualization: Example
Presenting in a visually engaging will capture the attention of your grant reviewers. Click on the picture to be taken to an example.
Final Data Tips
data gaps
Tailoring data
Balance Data
Balance your data with narrative.
Tailor data to the funder.
Address any data gaps.
Additional Resources
incorporating research
How to incorporate your data in your needs statement.
importance of data
Additional ideas on data sources
the rationale
More reasons to use data in your needs statements.
amplify your writing
Using data as a complement to your story.
Establish Urgency
Justifying the importance of your work
Establishing Urgency
practical applications
Immediate Consequences
Time-Sensitive Opportunities
Escalating Trends
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Establishing Urgency
practical applications
Emotional Appeals
External Factors
Path to Impact
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Establishing Urgency
practical applications
Projections to the Future
Funders' Goals
Reinforce Your Call
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Additional Resources
Using tone
Make sure your words count.
stand out
Distinguish yourself with a sense of urgency.
inspire
Inspire the funder as a partner.
ramp it up
Activate your funder to be part of the solution.
Alignment with Funder
create a funding partner
Funder Alignment
essential considerations
Additional Resources
appeals
Creating a strong funder appeal.
for rural
Be appealing throughout your proposal.
denial
In case you get denied...
enhance your appeal
Perfect your language.
Keeping it Reader Friendly
remember your human reader
Reader Friendly
Structure Readability
Clear & Concise Language
Use these tips that combine the learnings from all needs statement sections.
Relatable Examples
Active Voice
Test for Simplicity
Strengths Based Language
Inspire Action
Simplify Data
Example
To help you craft the perfect statement
Needs Statement Example
protecting urban greenspaces to preserve ecological health
funder alignment
Establish urgency
data & evidence
the problem
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Organizational Development
- Strategic planning & project planning
- Organizational lifecycles
- Organizational structure
- Leadership development
GrantsPolicy Influence
Comparative Data: Example
"The unemployment rate in our region is 12%, significantly higher than the national average of 4% (US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023)."
Reinforce the Call to Action
End your needs statement with a compelling appeal that motivates the funder to act now.Example: "Your support today can change the trajectory of an entire generation, ensuring that every child in our community has the chance to enjoy nature. Delaying action will mean lost opportunities that we cannot afford."
Tailor Data to Funder
Align with Their Priorities: Use data that connects to the funder's goal or focus areas. Example: "As an organization committed to advancing environmental equity, you may find it significant that our community has an asthma rate of 40% higher than the state average (CDC, 2023)." Highlight Return on Investment (ROI): Show funders how their support will achieve measurable outcomes. Example: "Every $1 invested in our program yields $4 economic benefit to the community by increasing employability."
Personalize the Call to Action
Involve the Funder as a Partner: Position them as a key ally in addressing the need.Appeal to Their Legacy: Highlight how their funding will create lasting change.
Show Escalating Trends
Demonstrate Worsening Conditions: Provide data showing how the problem has grown over time and will continue to do so without intervention. Example: "In the past five years, our community asthma rates have doubled, and without immediate action, projections indicate another 30% increase by 2026." Point to New Challenges: Highlight emerging issues that require swift action. Example: "The recent closure of the only grocery has left 15,000 residents without access to food access."
Use Emotional Appeals
Humanize the Impact: Share stories or testimonials that illustrate how the problem directly impacts individuals.Example: "Maria, a single mother of three, faces eviction because she only earns $1,200 from her full time agricultural job, far below the livable wage in our country. Without immediate support, her children's future is at risk." Evoke Empathy and Action: Use evocative language to emphasize the stakes.
Example: "Every day, three more agricultural families in our community fall below the poverty line, and each delay in funding means lost opportunities to break the cycle."
Use Time-Sensitive Opportunities
Window of Action: Emphasize that funding is needed now to capitalize on a unique moment or condition. Example: "With new state legislation allocating resources to rural infrastructure, this is the pivotal time to expand our utility programs and ensure our community receives equitable access to funding." Season or Cyclical Issues: Show how the problem is tied to a specific timeframe. Example: "As fire season approaches, funding is critical to equip our shelters and train new volunteers."
Connect the problem to your organization
Integrate Data with Strengths
Establish urgency
Informed Decision-Making: It supports evidence-based decision-making, ensuring that strategies and interventions are grounded in reliable data rather than assumptions or anecdotal evidence.
Align with the funder's goals
Use data and evidence
Inspire Action Through Positivity
Emphasize Potential for Growth & Change
Use Projections for Forward-Looking
Highlight the Cost of Delay: Show how costs or challenges will increase over time without intervention.Example: "Every year of inaction on repairing our community's water infrastructure results in an additional $500,000 in damages and growing risk of health crises." Point to Preventable Losses: Frame the grant as an investment that avoids future harm or expense. Example: "Early intervention programs for fire risk save $7 for every $1 spent by spraying trees for beetles."
Research the Funder Thoroughly
Mission and Vision: Understand the funder’s overarching mission, vision, and strategic priorities. Funding Areas: Review their past grants to identify common themes, target populations, or geographic areas. Key Phrases and Language: Use terminology from the funder’s website, guidelines, or annual reports to reflect their values.
Optional but recommended: Include a Call to Action End your needs statement with a forward-looking note that sets the stage for your proposed solution. Example: "This grant will enable us to expand our proven programs to address these urgent challenges and improve outcomes for hundreds of at-risk youth in our community."
Balance Data with Narrative
Avoid Overloading with Numbers: Integrate data into your story to make it meaningful rather than listing statistics. Connect to Human Impact: Pair data points with real-world implications or personal stories. Example: "While 65% of adults in our community lack access to high-speed internet, students like John rely on limited public Wi-Fi, putting them at a significant academic advantage.
Overview
Content to be covered
This training will provide you with an understanding of how to approach proposal needs statements with confidence. This module covers:
Anticipate Their Concerns
Address potential doubts funders may have, such as scalability, feasibility, or alignment with their criteria.
Focus on Collaboration & Community Assets
Frame the Problem as an Opportunity
Informed Decision-Making: It supports evidence-based decision-making, ensuring that strategies and interventions are grounded in reliable data rather than assumptions or anecdotal evidence.
Highlight Shared Outcomes
Mutual Benefits: Show how your project’s success contributes to the funder’s broader objectives. Use Metrics That Matter to Them: Incorporate measurable outcomes that reflect the funder’s priorities.
Qualitative Data
Examples
Case Studies: "Maria, a single mother of three, struggles to find affordable childcare, limiting her ability to work and support her family." Testimonials: "One parent noted, 'Without after-school programs, I worry my kids will fall behind their peers academically and socially."
Address Their Investment Interests
Show Return on Investment (ROI): Frame the grant as a high-impact investment. Demonstrate Sustainability: If the funder values long-term impact, highlight how your project will sustain itself after their funding ends.
Reflect Their Values in Your Language
Social Justice and Equity: If the funder prioritizes equity, emphasize how your program serves marginalized or underserved populations.Innovation: If they value innovation, describe how your project offers a novel solution to a persistent challenge. Community Involvement: If community engagement is important to the funder, showcase your partnerships and participatory approach.
Prioritization of Needs: Quantitative data helps prioritize needs by providing evidence on the severity and urgency of various SDOH issues. This allows decision-makers to focus resources where they are most needed.
Demonstrate Credibility & Capacity
Show Your Readiness: Reinforce that your organization is well-positioned to achieve the funder’s goals.Evidence of Past Success: Share examples of measurable outcomes from your previous work that align with the funder’s objectives.
This section pulls together all the learnings from previous sections. Use these tips as a checklist to ensure you provide the strongest needs statement!
How to use this training
Method of learning. The training may be facilitated by your CRES and/or as a self-study tool. Navigation. Click on the links in the beginning of each section if you'd like a targeted understanding of a certain subject. Additional resources. At the end of each section, you'll find links to further learnings, if you want to go deeper. For each topic. Each topic contains definitions, practical applications, the pros and cons, and additional resources.
Incorporate Funders' Goals
Align Urgency with Their Mission: Show how funding your project meets their priorities while addressing time-sensitive needs.Example: "This project aligns with your commitment to promoting clean water. Immediate funding will ensure that students in our district are healthy while drinking clean water in our schools."
Objective Measurement: Quantitative data provides objective and measurable evidence of the needs, conditions, and resources within a community. This helps in minimizing biases that can arise from subjective assessments.
Quantitative Data
Examples
Statistics: "In our county, 42% of children under age five live in poverty, compared to the national average of 18% (US Census Bureau, 2023)." Trends: "Over the past decade, high school dropout rates in our district have risen by 25%, often due to transportation barriers (Department of Education, 2023)."
Relevant Research & Reports
"According to the National Literacy Project, students who participate in nature reading program improve their reading proficiency by 15%."
Directly Connect to Their Priorities
Explicitly State the Alignment: Clearly explain how your project fits within the funder’s focus areas. Tailor the Framing of the Problem: Emphasize aspects of the issue that match the funder’s goals.
Address Data Gaps
If data are unavailable, especially in rural areas, acknowledge it and explain how your project will help fill these gaps. Example: "Currently, there is limited data on the long-term effects of environmental literacy programs in rural areas. By implementing this project, we will collect and analyze data to better inform future efforts.
Baseline Establishment: It allows for the establishment of baseline metrics, enabling stakeholders to compare current conditions against future outcomes. This is essential for tracking progress and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
Show a Clear Path to Impact
Demonstrate Readiness: Prove that your organization is prepared to act immediately with the necessary support. Example: "Our team has already secured partnerships with local farms, ensuring we can launch our program within 30 days of receiving funding." Highlight Tangible Benefits: Explain how the funding will lead to measurable and timely outcomes. Example: "With this grant, we can provide 500 underserved children access to after-school meals by the start of the next academic year."
Leverage External Factors
Policy Changes: Reference new legislation or funding opportunities that require immediate action. Example: "Without the upcoming federal funding deadline, this grant will ensure we can match required funds to expand community center services." Economic or Social Shifts: Highlight crises or trends driving the urgency. Example: "Raising inflation has doubled the cost of housing, making affordable housing initiatives more critical than ever for low-income families."
Reference Their Past Support
Acknowledge Their Impact: If the funder has supported similar projects, mention their contributions to the field.Draw Parallels: Connect your project to others they have funded to highlight alignment.
Highlight Immediate Consequences of Inaction
Quantify Potential Negative Outcomes: Use data to show how the situation will worsen if left unaddressed. Example: "Without intervention, the resident rate in our district is projected to decrease by 20%, leading to significant economic and social challenges. Describe the Ripple Effect: Explain how the problem affects not only the target population, but also the broader community, economy, or environment.
Example: "The rising rate of unemployment contributes to increased poverty, strain on social services, and long-term economic instability."
Strengths-Based Problem Statement
Using a strengths-based approach to describe a problem in a grant needs statement shifts the focus from solely highlighting deficiencies to emphasizing the potential, assets, and opportunities of the community or population. This approach aligns with funders who prioritize empowerment, equity, and capacity-building. Keep going to learn how to incorporate this perspective effectively.
Keep it reader friendly
A strong needs statement tells a story that connects the reader with the emotional need for your program.
Heart
A strong needs statement balances the heart with the head. Emotional stories are balanced with quantitative data.
Head
VS
Clear description of the problem
Identification of Trends: Analyzing quantitative data helps identify trends over time, such as changes in disease prevalence, service utilization, or demographic shifts. This information can guide long-term planning and resource allocation.
Acknowledge Past Succes or Progress
Data & Evidence
Recent studies reveal that urban areas in the US lose approximately 175,000 acres of tree cover annually, equating to 36 million trees lost each year (US Forest Service). Locally, our city has seen 20% reduction in greenspace over the last decade, with a corresponding increase in heat island effects and air pollution levels exceeding EPA thresholds. Moreover, underserved communities are disproportionately affected, as they often lack access to shaded areas, clean air, and recreational spaces.
Establishing Urgency
If current trends persist, our city will lose an additional 10% of its remaining greenspaces by 2030. This loss would significantly amplify the risks associated with extreme weather events, including flooding and heatwaves, while diminishing residents' quality of life. Addressing the issue now is critical to reversing these trends and ensuring a healthier, more sustainable urban environment for future generations.
The Problem
Urban greenspaces are disappearing at an alarming rate due to rapid urbanization. These vital ecosystems, which include parks, wetlands, and community gardens, play a critical role in mitigating climate change, improving air and water quality, and supporting biodiversity. Without intervention, the continued loss of greenspaces threaten public health, ecological balance, and climate resilience in our communities.
Alignment with Funder
[Insert funder's name] has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental conservation and climate adaptation initiatives. This proposed program directly aligns with the funder's goal by promoting community-driven solutions to protect greenspaces, enhance urban tree capacity, and reduce climate vulnerabilities. Through strategic partnerships and evidence-based approaches, this initiative will advance both ecological preservation and equitable access to environmental benefits.