The statement of need (or “needs assessment”) is the heart of your proposal. It convinces the funder that a real, urgent problem exists and that your organization is the right one to solve it.
Lead with data, not adjectives
“A serious problem” persuades no one. Specific numbers do: rates, counts, comparisons to state or national averages, trends over time. Cite credible sources — census data, agency statistics, peer-reviewed studies — and tie them to the population you serve.
Make it local and specific
Funders fund concrete problems in concrete places. Move from the broad issue to your specific community, population and gap. Show the problem where you work, not just in general.
Connect need to the funder’s priorities
Reframe your need in the language of the program’s goals. If the NOFO prioritizes equity or rural access, show how your need reflects exactly that. Read the NOFO first and echo its priorities.
Show the consequence of inaction
Briefly state what happens if the problem goes unaddressed. Urgency motivates funding — but keep it factual, not alarmist.
Don’t describe your organization yet
A common mistake: writing about your programs instead of the problem. The need section is about the gap; your solution comes next. Keep them separate so the logic is clear. From here, your objectives and evaluation should flow directly from the need you’ve established.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a statement of need and a problem statement?
They are essentially the same: a data-backed case that a specific, urgent problem exists in your community and warrants funding. “Statement of need” is the more common term in federal grants.
How long should a statement of need be?
Long enough to prove the problem with data and tie it to the funder’s priorities — usually one to two pages. Follow any length guidance in the NOFO and stay concise.