The Hand in Hand Research Grant from the American Occupational Therapy Foundation supports early-stage, community-engaged research to advance evidence-based hand and upper extremity therapy.
Funder: American Occupational Therapy Foundation
Due Dates: November 3, 2026 (Full application — 2026 cycle) | November 3, 2025 (Full application — 2025 cycle)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 for a one-year project (including indirect costs, capped at 10%)
Summary: Supports early-stage, community-engaged research in hand and upper extremity therapy to advance evidence-based occupational therapy practice.
Key Information: All proposals must include at least one occupational therapist (meeting PI eligibility) and one community partner.
This grant, a collaboration between the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF), the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT), and the American Hand Therapy Foundation (AHTF), funds early-stage research projects that emphasize strong community engagement in hand and upper extremity therapy. The program prioritizes proposals that foster robust partnerships among researchers, clinicians, and community stakeholders, aiming to produce actionable, evidence-informed findings that address real-world needs and health disparities in diverse populations. Projects should lay the groundwork for future large-scale studies and demonstrate clear plans for community involvement, dissemination, and sustainability.