Mentored Pilot Grant

The Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research offers the Mentored Pilot Grant to support clinically relevant, investigator-initiated research in the field of orthotics and prosthetics. This program provides a one-year grant of $5,000 to help trainees and clinicians complete research projects with guidance from an experienced research mentor. The grant is intended to promote the advancement of clinical knowledge and practice by fostering research that aligns with the Foundation’s Research Priorities. The Mentored Pilot Grant is awarded annually based on the scientific merit, clinical relevance, and alignment of the proposed research with the Foundation’s mission. Eligible applicants include current master’s or doctoral students, orthotics and prosthetics residents, or practicing clinicians in the O&P field. A doctoral-level or equivalently experienced research mentor is required, and the research team must include a clinician trained in orthotics and prosthetics. Projects must be based in the United States and must address clinically relevant topics in the profession. A Letter of Intent (LOI) is required and must be submitted by October 6, 2025. The LOI must briefly describe the proposed research and list all collaborators. It is used for internal planning and does not receive feedback. The full proposal is due by November 3, 2025, and must include a detailed abstract, specific aims, background and significance, methodology, anticipated results, budget and justification, timeline, references, biosketches, mentor support letter, and a mentee statement. Trainees unable to serve as Principal Investigator may serve as Co-PI if institutional policy restricts PI eligibility, in which case additional documentation is required. Grants are disbursed in a single installment directly to either the awardee or their host institution. Indirect costs are not allowed, and the recipient is responsible for any tax liabilities. A no-cost extension of one year may be requested. A final report summarizing project activities, expenditures, outcomes, and future directions is due within 30 days of project completion. Award recipients may also request up to $2,500 in additional dissemination support for expenses such as conference registration or publication fees, which is available for up to three years following the grant. All proposals are evaluated by a review panel based on merit, relevance, feasibility, and alignment with clinical needs. Reviewers are members of the Foundation’s Research Committee and may include ad-hoc experts as needed. Scores, summary comments, and full reviews are provided to all applicants. Successful applicants will receive an award letter and terms for disbursement. Notification of award status is expected by December 2025. Questions may be directed to info@oandpfoundation.org or to the Research Chair at research@oandpfoundation.org.