RFP FAQs

CCRF issues two RFPs per year: a general call (spring) and a focused call (fall). Criteria for each RFP will vary and can be found HERE when the RFP is open. Please check for details before you apply.

Typically, individual grants range from $5,000 to $60,000 depending on the nature and total funds available for each RFP. Larger requests will be considered when exceptional value can be demonstrated by the applicant. Details can be found under the Grants tab when an RFP is open. 

CCRF invites proposals for scientifically sound projects which:

• Explore at least 1 of our 4 National Research Priorities
• Demonstrate high impact for one or more of the following groups:
  • patients
  • the chiropractic profession
  • policymakers
  • payers (e.g., insurance organizations, health plan providers)
  • partners
• Build meaningfully on past research or demonstrate fresh insights
• Provide excellent value for money

Please review our Current & Past Grants for examples of previous project awards.

CCRF may offer full or partial funding, which is dependent on factors such as the size of the funding pool, budget submission details, supplementary revenue sources confirmed by applicant and the anticipated project impact.

All researchers in good standing with their professional association and academic institutions.

• A PhD is beneficial but not required if sufficient research, publication experience and institutional support can be demonstrated or unless otherwise noted in the specific RFP call.
• At least one Canadian team member is required, and a Canadian project lead is preferred
• A Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) designation is beneficial but not required.

CCRF prefers projects that can be completed in 4 to 18 months, although high value studies with terms of up to 36 months will be considered.

Our Research Committee reviews every submission matching the general RFP call criterion utilizing a proprietary assessment tool. As CCRF welcomes a range of proposals we do not publish detailed content guidelines.

Historically, successful proposals demonstrate excellent value for money, fresh insights and strong relevance to patients, policymakers, payers, CCRF partners and the chiropractic profession.

Participatory funding from other organizations and/or tangible support from the  applicant’s academic institution is very highly recommended.

No feedback is provided for LOI submissions.

CCRF, at its sole discretion, may provide succinct written feedback regarding unsuccessful grant applications upon written request.

Please note: When a large number of high-quality submissions are received, certain projects may be unfunded primary due to the relative strength of competitive submissions in the round.

LOI submission and Grant Application funding requests should be identical.

Funding requests directly related to project execution are preferred, as is participatory funding from other organizations and tangible support from the submitter’s academic institution. This is especially important for projects with larger budgets and/or extended timelines.

Final grant award amounts may be rounded by CCRF.

CCRF understands each submission is unique and important outcomes can be delivered through a variety of investments. However, funding requests not directly related to project execution require strong justification.

• Scholarships
• Academic positions or appointments
• Commercial product development or market research
• General fundraising campaigns
• Endowments
• Partisan political activities
• Emergency needs
• Religious activities
• Research without suitable Canadian participation
• Research that does not adhere to recognized scientific standards

Our Research Committee is currently comprised of four (4) volunteer leaders: Dr. Richard McIlmoyle (Chair), Dr. Shawn Thistle, Dr. Aaron Puhl and Dr. Patrick Welsh. Support is provided by CCRF Executive Director, Robert Harris, and Marketing Specialist, Keishiya Balendran.

CCA membership is preferred; however, CCRF accepts applications from all researchers in good standing with recognized professional associations.

Ethics approvals, when required, are the sole responsibility of the applicant.

Applicant confirmation of required ethics approvals is mandatory prior to the disbursement of any grant award.