Lessons Learned Through the Application of Implementation Science Concepts to Children’s Bureau Discretionary Grant Programs

This report explores factors based on implementation science research that facilitate successful implementation of innovative Children’s Bureau discretionary grant projects.

JBA undertook a qualitative study in 2011 that involved document reviews, site visits, and conference calls with 17 Children’s Bureau grantees that demonstrated initial evidence of successful implementation. The study explored more than 100 implementation factors and concepts adapted from the National Implementation Research Network implementation model and JBA’s own implementation research.

Common themes characterized the work of successful implementers and formed the basis for several recommendations for grantees:

• Identify and empower a project champion within the grantee organization
• Build new or enhance existing community partnerships and commitment
• Hire or assign project staff members with appropriate skills and characteristics
• Build sustainability into the project design and implementation process