Significance of the Problem -
Evidence that the proposal addresses a significant community health issue, in terms of both scope and seriousness, as well as a key criterion of addressing the underserved.
Level of Integration -
The degree to which the proposed approach to the issue being addressed by the applicant(s) is integrated, interdisciplinary, and comprehensive, involving both public health and medical strategies. Where an individual organization lacks the resources to mount such an integrated program itself, it will be expected to partner with other agencies with complementary goals and capacities, and to demonstrate that the collaboration proposed is serious and effective, rather than creating duplicative programming. Public and/or private co-funders of proposals are welcomed.
The Soundness of the Approach -
The degree to which the proposed approach to the health issue addressed by the applicant(s) is based on an in-depth understanding of the issue and the principal factors affecting it; knowledge of “best practices” developed by others working on the same issues; and a strong connection with the community in which the proposed program or intervention will be mounted, including involvement, when appropriate, of the intended target population in proposal planning and implementation.
The Capacity for Enduring Systems Change -
The potential for the approach proposed by the applicant(s) to bring about long-term changes in the systems, policies, and practices that directly influence the conditions affecting the health problem addressed and its prevention, treatment, or management.
The Potential for Impact -
Evidence that the applicant organization has the capacity and capability to implement the proposed program effectively.
The Potential for Replication -
The likelihood that the approach proposed, if proven effective, can be replicated elsewhere.
Quality of the Evaluation Plan -
The soundness of the proposed strategy for assessing the effectiveness and impact of the approach being taken by the applicant(s), and how the lessons learned will be applied and used.
Exit Strategy -
The appropriateness of the plan proposed by the applicant(s) for dealing with the eventual phasing out of Foundation funding.
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