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Funding Amount

Varies

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Innovation Award

Award Definition: Recognizes OTR and COTA certificants who demonstrate the delivery of an effective, innovative, and evidence-based program or intervention that enhances the quality of life for a person or persons.

    Eligibility Requirements

  • Current NBCOT certification in good standing is required for the award nominee
  • The program/intervention must be supported with evidence
  • Strong connection to the NBCOT mission must be demonstrated

    Geographic Scope

  • Not limited to United States; international work is eligible

    Award Benefits

  • Award recognition
  • Featured spotlight in NBCOT publications and social media
  • Press release to share the news
  • Free certification renewal for the next renewal cycle

    What the Award Looks For

  • Innovative programs that show continuity rather than single, time-limited efforts
  • Novel, creative, or cutting-edge approaches to enhancing quality of life
  • Clear objectives and vision statements

    Contact Information

  • Mailing Address: One Bank Street, Suite 300, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
  • Phone: 1-301-990-7979
  • Email: info@nbcot.org
  • Website: https://www.nbcot.org/awards/innovation-award

Application Status

The application submission window is currently closed. Decisions are announced in mid-summer.

How to Apply

How to Apply

1. Access the award application platform and create an account
- You can also log in using your Google username and password
2. Complete the award application
3. Attach the following required documents:
- Program information including two of any of the following: website link, brochure, press release, or publication
- Nominee's résumé (only if self-nominating)
4. Submit the application

Note: Self-nomination or nomination by others is accepted.

Application Questions

Detailed description of the innovative program/intervention:

  • Include client population, program/intervention objectives and vision

  • Explain how the program/intervention represents a new approach to enhancing the quality of life for a person or persons

  • Provide evidence or a rationale for why you believe the program/intervention represents a novel approach

  • Consider whether the program or intervention truly represents "innovation" (creative or cutting-edge)

  • Ensure objectives and vision are clearly stated

    • Summary of evidence showing the effectiveness of the innovative program/intervention:

  • Describe how it has positively influenced participants' quality of life

  • Evidence can be any type: qualitative, quantitative, testimonials, pre- and post-intervention client reports, anecdotes, etc.

  • Evidence should be compelling and specific

  • Note: Research-level evidence is not required; all types of evidence will be considered

    • Describe how the innovative program/intervention supports the mission of NBCOT:

  • Make a strong connection between the program or intervention and NBCOT's mission

      • Submission Tips

    • Develop thoughtful responses; avoid rushing
    • Stay on track and always connect responses back to the question
    • Avoid simply restating questions in your own words
    • Include details and examples where indicated
    • Avoid broad or vague language
    • Keep responses clear and simple to understand
    • Be objective about the work
    • Consider working with colleagues to co-review your application before submitting
    • The application platform saves your work as you go; you can enter and exit multiple times
    • Use the "Collaborator" feature in the application platform to invite others to view and/or edit your application
    • Complete time: less than 30 minutes (if materials are prepared in advance)
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