Potential for the idea

The potential of the project idea

ImageIda Åberg

Is there a known need for solutions in the chosen area? What impact can the project have? Which people and/or organisations do you need to anchor the project idea with? Is the idea in line with the priorities of the organisation, the region, nationally and at EU level?

Conduct an environmental analysis

How do you verify the potential, and uniqueness, of your idea? Must it be completely unique to the programme you are applying to?

An environmental survey is always necessary. A first step is to check project databases for previously funded projects. Project ideas are commonly tested with different funders. A basis may also be created that is later adjusted to match a specific call for proposals.

Contact the funder

To verify the potential of an idea, contact the funder early on to discuss possible directions and what is important to consider.

Does the idea solve a real need?

Does it matter if the project originates from the wishes and needs of the citizens? If so, how can this be shown and taken advantage of? It is often possible to presume that an idea must be based on a real need.

The idea's potential must show that it is important

1. Find out what needs exist in the context of the idea by reading reports and strategy documents that present or build on identified needs.

2. Involve relevant groups with needs. Groups that commonly play important roles are patient and family associations. Make contact early and discuss to gain a deeper understanding. Include the group/association in a reference group or similar throughout the project process.

3. In what way is the idea based on real needs in society or in your own organisation? What impact can the project have on gender equality, the environment and/or the economy?

Anchoring the project for application

Who needs to make which decisions in my organisation? Determine the decision-making process early to prevent problems when the application is due. This can include both people with signatory authority who can sign the completed application (as required by the funders) and people who need to make decisions about resources for the project (e.g., staff, co-financing, etc.).
With which external people and/or organisations must you anchor?
Ensure that the effort is in line with the organisation's direction. Do so by, e.g., consulting internal policy documents. This will facilitate justifying the efforts, and the anchoring work will be easier to carry out.

Tools regarding the potential of the project idea

Environmental analysis to estimate and increase the potential of the project

It is useful to look at your idea in relation to other solutions to the problem you aim to address. Google search for alternatives is a structured way to find and review the alternatives. (The document is in Swedish.) Looking through previously funded projects in project databases will give you.

Does the project idea and its potential outcome align with objectives and visions of relevant partners?

By knowing the vision of the partners, you can make sure that your idea is in line with what that organisation wants to achieve. Take a look at Region Västerbotten's goals regarding care close to the patients. ( The information is in Swedish)

Anchor the project

Thorough anchoring of the project idea and activities, with decision-makers and stakeholders, facilitates the works process. Start the early and ensure that the expected contribution fits the organisation's focus. Our template ( in Swedish) can be useful in the anchoring process.