1. Are the project objectives aligned with the Foundation’s mission?
2. Do subscribers expect the Foundation’s help in solving the underlying issue?
3. Can the research results be delivered in time to address our subscribers’ most pressing needs?
4. Is the project technically feasible, and can credible, defensible findings be confidently assured?
5. Can the project expand and become more meaningful by leveraging other funding sources?
6. Does the research meet the needs of a broad segment of subscribers; or, unique needs of a particular region or group of subscribers coping with specific problems?
7. Is the project a logical next step to advance knowledge by building on prior or ongoing research; or, does it break new ground and establish important new knowledge?

Prioritizing how we spent our limited resources is not done alone. We consult year-round with subscribers, top researchers and other key stakeholders to ascertain what is most vital.