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Innovation Award

Award Definition

Recognizes OTRs or COTAs 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.

How to Apply

  • Access the award application platform and create an account. You can also log in using your Google username and password.
  • Complete the award application and attach the following documents:
    • Program information, to include two of any of the following: website link, brochure, press release, or publication
    • Nominee's résumé (only if self-nominating)
  • Submit the application.
  • Self-nomination or nomination by others is accepted.

Additional Information for Application Questions

  • Detailed description of the innovative program/intervention, including client population, program/intervention objectives and vision, and how the program/intervention represents a new approach to enhancing the quality of life for a person or persons. Your response must provide evidence or a rationale for why you believe the program/intervention represents a novel approach.
    • Other ways to describe innovation may include truly creative or cutting edge. Consider, does the program or intervention being nominated truly represent “innovation”?
    • Objectives and vision are clearly stated.
  • Summary of evidence showing the effectiveness of the innovative program/intervention and how it has positively influenced participants' quality of life.
    • Evidence can be any type—qualitative, quantitative, testimonials, pre- and post-intervention client reports, anecdotes—but should be compelling and specific.
  • Describe how the innovative program/intervention supports the mission of NBCOT.
    • Strong award applications make a connection between the program or intervention and NBCOT’s mission.

Be sure to check out our tips and frequently asked questions for additional details about submitting an award application.

*Please note that these are general recommendations and in no way guarantee an application resulting in an award.

Innovation Award submissions will open on February 3, 2025.

Previous Innovation Award Winners

Learn about the OTRs and COTAs who won the Innovation Award in previous years.