AOTF supports the advancement of occupational therapy through funding opportunities for students, clinicians, early career researchers, and experienced investigators. From scholarships and fellowships to grants and mentorship awards, these programs aim to build evidence, promote innovation, and strengthen the OT profession. Please take a look at the current and upcoming opportunities below. Timelines are subject to change.
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Open Date
09/18/2026
Deadline
11/06/2026
Dr. Carolyn Baum Cognitive Function in Daily Life Mentor Award
Eligibility: Post-Doctoral Researchers
The Dr. Carolyn Baum Cognitive Function in Daily Life Mentor Award represents AOTF’s commitment to building research capacity through mentorship. By supporting experienced researchers in training emerging scientists, we ensure that Dr. Baum’s pioneering work in functional cognition continues to inspire discoveries that improve lives.
Educational Scholarships Applications Open: 11/02/2026 Applications Close: 12/11/2026 Overview The American Occupational Therapy Foundation awards more than 50 scholarships annually to students pursuing occupational therapy education. Since 1965, we’ve awarded over 1,200 scholarships to students enrolled in AOTA-accredited or developing occupational therapy programs. Scholarships range from $150 to $5,000. One application automatically considers you for…
Bonita Kraft Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Scholarship Applications Open: 01/05/2027 Application Deadline: 02/19/2027 Overview The Bonita Kraft Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Scholarship supports doctoral candidates pursuing research in mental health and serious mental illness. Named for a practitioner who dedicated 45 years to community mental health, this scholarship helps build the evidence base for occupational…
Dr. A. Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Research Scholarship
Eligibility: OT Doctoral Students
Dr. A. Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Research Scholarship Applications Open: 01/05/2027 Application Deadline: 02/19/2027 Overview The Dr. A. Jean Ayres Doctoral Candidate Research Scholarship supports occupational therapy doctoral candidates conducting research in sensory integration and sensory processing. As the demand for evidence-based sensory interventions grows across pediatric and adult populations, this scholarship ensures the next…
Kielhofner Doctoral Research Scholarship Application open: 01/05/2027 Application Deadline: 02/19/2027 Overview The Dr. Gary Kielhofner Doctoral Research Scholarship supports occupational therapy doctoral candidates pursuing research that advances the science and practice of occupational therapy. Named for one of the profession’s most influential figures, this scholarship reflects Dr. Kielhofner’s lifelong commitment to rigorous research, innovative thinking,…
Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Applications Open: 01/05/2027 Application Deadline: 02/19/2027 Overview Building Diversity in Occupational Therapy Research In honor of Nancy Talbot, MEd, OTR, FAOTA, The Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers from racial and ethnic groups underrepresented in health sciences, advancing diversity and fostering the perspectives essential for addressing complex healthcare…
The Nedra Gillette Endowed Research Fellowship honors occupational therapy leaders who have advanced the profession’s scientific foundation. This prestigious fellowship provides critical foundational support for postdoctoral researchers conducting groundbreaking occupational therapy research, advancing scientific inquiry into the human condition, while building a more diverse and inclusive research workforce by supporting individuals from groups that have been underrepresented in biomedical, behavioral, clinical, and social sciences.
STRIDE Mentored Research Scholarship (SMRS) Applications Open: 06/01/2026 Application Deadline: 06/29/2026 Overview Program Mission The American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF), standing for Research Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (STRIDE) committee, is offering research funds to occupational therapy (OT) graduates and clinicians from underrepresented backgrounds, with disabilities, and/or from under-resourced backgrounds1 2 to address the urgent need…
These 2022-2025 research priorities emerged from a year-long process which included a comprehensive environment scan of
the strategic plans of federal agencies and major foundations
a survey from OT stakeholders including researchers and clinicians
focus groups with OT researchers.
Data from the environmental scan was reviewed by the AOTF Scientific Advisory Council and AOTF Board. Input was also obtained from other AOTF’s key stakeholder groups prior to the development and/or revisions of the final priorities. Future AOTF research initiatives will address these priorities to support our vision of having a vibrant science that builds knowledge to support effective, evidence-based occupational therapy.
Health Promotion, Prevention and Management of Chronic Conditions
Mental Health and Well-Being
Technology and Environmental Supports in the Home and Community
Development and Transitions for Individuals and Families
Equitable Access and Use of Health and Community Services
Family and Caregiver Supports, Resiliency, and Well-Being
Family and Caregiver Supports, Resiliency, and Well-Being
