From Ideas to Impact
OT Exchange is Australia’s largest clinical conference for occupational therapists, bringing together real-world knowledge and approaches that strengthen everyday practice. Designed for the whole profession, it’s the must-attend event to connect, be inspired, and shape the future of occupational therapy together.
PITCH IT
Got an Emerging Technology or Innovation? Pitch It at OT Exchange!
Deadline to submit has been extended to Monday 17 November 2025
To meet society's needs, occupational therapy must be able to influence the development of new and assistive technologies. In this dynamic and interactive session, we invite OTs to submit a proposal to pitch their ideas, concepts, and prototypes in a format designed to encourage discussion of and feedback on their products.
What to Submit
Got a game-changing idea? A clever prototype? A bold solution to an OT challenge? Pitch It is your chance to share it. We’re looking for emerging innovations, early-stage products, service ideas, or tech that could shape the future of occupational therapy. Tell us what problem you’re solving, how your idea works, and why it matters. If it’s original, impactful, and OT relevant, we want to see it.
Eligibility Requirements
- The individual or group applying to pitch must include an OT
- The device, service or tool being presented needs to be in the prototype stage or later in order to qualify. Sketches and ideas of potential products do not qualify for participation.
- The presenters and prototype would need to be available to pitch at the OT Exchange 2026 on either 23 or 24 June. Selected inventors will be required to attend the entire event.
- The individual or group will give a 10-minute presentation and receive feedback on their product.
- Presenters must not share any protected IP during the Pitch It! sessions.
- Company turnover must be less than $1 million to be eligible for this pitch.
Technology Area
Each proposal will require a selection of one technology area, and a selection of key words which best describe the submission.
Accommodations
Cognition and Sensory Loss
Communication Technologies and Computer Access
Knowledge Translation
Consumer Access, Priorities, and Benefits over the Lifespan
Delivery, Outcomes, and Policy
Emerging Technologies
Wheeled Mobility and Seating
Telehealth
Gaming/Virtual Reality
Steps to submit
1. Prepare your submission
Prepare your submission up to 250 words in total. We highly recommend writing your abstract in a word document or similar before submitting your abstract in the portal.
2. Click here to access the presentation submission portal
Within the portal, you will need to 'Create a New Account', then 'Update Your Contact Information'. Once this step is done, you will see the 'Presentation Submission' tab.
3. Follow the instructions to submit your presentation.
Summarise the major points of your pitch and describe how this topic will advance either the practice/professional development of the participant or the field of occupational therapy.Please cover the following points. Required items are indicated (*).
Overview
- Briefly describe your product or tool*
- What is the broad mission or goal of your company or personal mission as it relates to development of this product?
Problem Statement
- What problem does this solution solve?*
- What is the target population (including the number of people affected and potential number this could help)?
- How will the product improve/revolutionize/change current occupational therapy practice?*
- How has OT been involved in the creation of your product?
Solution / Technology
- Describe your innovative product or tool*
- Describe stage of development*
- What are plans for further development, testing and dissemination?
Competition / Competitive Advantage
- What existing technology may be a competitor for this product?
- What barriers to adoption and strategies to overcome these barriers?
Sales / Marketing
- What traction has the product received?
- Where would you like the product to be a year from now?
4. Submit
Complete your submission and 'Submit' then check your inbox for your confirmation email. If you have not received a confirmation email your presentation may not have been submitted.
5. Wait for a notification of outcome
Notification of the outcome of your submission will be sent to you by email on 30 January 2026.
Contact Us
Occupational Therapy Australia acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Occupational Therapy Australia
Phone:
1300 682 878
Email: conferences@otaus.com.au