Office of Research Erika Zynda, Contracts & Grants Coordinator Administration 248A (574) 520-4181 | FAX: (574) 520-5549 ezynda@iusb.edu

Grant Writing Workshop

The fool wonders, the wise man asks. - Benjamin Disraeli

Document Need

• What is the problem that requires a solution?

 
• What will happen if this needs area is not addressed?

 
• What is the gap between what exists now and what ought to be or would be if the knowledge existed to solve the problem?

 
• Why should grant funds be used now to solve the problem and reduce the gap?

Six Basic Approaches for Assessing and Documenting Needs

1. Key informant: Quotes from people who know about the problem or are experts in the field
2. Community forum: Public meetings to get testimony on the problem
3. Case Studies: Examples of clients in a need population
4. Statistical Analysis: Use of data from public record
5. Survey: Random selection of population to answer questions related to the need
6. Studies: Literature search of published documents on the subject

 

 

• Generate ideas by brainstorming your approaches with colleagues and key individuals

 
• Develop a system to summarize your best ideas and assess organizational commitments to the project 
  
  
• Conduct a cost-benefit analysis of your best ideas that highlight the differences, strengths, and weaknesses of each approach

Tips for writing a compelling Needs Statement

http://charitychannel.com/article_4165.shtml