This grant funds innovative research to advance physical therapy clinical practice and patient outcomes, supporting studies with strong methodologies and alignment to APTA research priorities.
Funder: Foundation for Physical Therapy Research
Due Dates: April 21, 2026 (Letter of Intent) | July 31, 2026 (Full application) | August 31, 2026 (Invited application)
Funding Amounts: $40,000 per award; 1–2 year project period; no indirect costs allowed
Summary: Supports high-quality research that advances physical therapy clinical practice, patient outcomes, and the profession.
Key Information: Only U.S.-licensed PTs/PTAs who are APTA members and meet "emerging investigator" criteria are eligible.
The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research offers multiple annual $40,000 grants to support innovative research that advances physical therapy practice, improves patient outcomes, and addresses gaps in the evidence base. These grants are designed to fund projects with immediate clinical relevance, robust methodologies, and the potential to lead to larger, impactful studies. Applicants must align their research with at least one priority from the APTA Research Agenda and demonstrate a strong conceptual framework, clear outcomes, and feasible recruitment and risk mitigation strategies.