OSOT Research Fund 

The OSOT Research Fund (OSOTRF) was created in 1982 to support the development of occupational therapy research in Ontario and to promote the dissemination of knowledge gained through occupational therapy research. As a member supported fund, the financial resources of the OSOTRF enable the Society to offer a Research Grants Program to promote occupational therapy research that will contribute to evidence-based clinical excellence and effective promotion of occupational therapy services within Ontario’s health care system. 

Support Occupational Therapy Research in Ontario - Make a Donation to the OSOTRF

Support occupational therapy research in Ontario - consider a donation to the OSOT Research Fund today. The Canadian Occupational Therapy Foundation (COTF) administers OSOT's Fund whereby you can make a secure online donation. Select "OSOT Fund" when asked where to direct your donation.

OSOT Research Fund Grants Program

The OSOTRF offers two annual research grants:

Occupational Therapy Research Grant - up to $2,000

  • An annual grant of up to $2,000 to support original/applied research that will provide an evidence base for clinical or practice related challenges or opportunities.
  • Focused on support of OT clinician-researchers.
  • 2025 applications will open in the new year.

Strategic Priorities Research Grant - up to $10,000

  • An annual grant of up to $10,000 (in 2023) to support clinical research that promotes the positioning and evolution of occupational therapy practice in Ontario and addresses policy and practice priorities identified by the OSOT Board of Directors.
  • Priority will be given to projects that seek to provide evidence of the value of occupational therapy to clients, families/caregivers, and the health care system particularly as this relates to:
    • Health Human Resources: optimizing existing resources, innovative models of care
    • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:
    • Identifying systemic factors that limit inclusion of diverse individuals into the profession of occupational therapy
    • Identifying systemic factors that limit access to occupational therapy services
    • Primary Care: innovative role for occupational therapy, evidence for use of occupational therapy in Family Health Teams/Community Health Centers
    • Long-term Care: evidence for OTs’ role, return on investment, innovative service delivery models
    • Occupational Therapist Assistants: innovative service delivery models, evidence for OTAs’ role, return on investment

  • 2025 applications will open in the new year.

OSOTRF Grant Application Eligibility

  • OSOT members, with membership with OSOT for at least six months and in good standing who are registered with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario are eligible to apply.
  • The annual application deadline is May 1st.

Apply Now