The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: The Canadian Tobacco Control Research Initiative (CTCRI) developed an innovative model of identifying better practices to support its mandate to produce research that impacts policy and programs. The presentation will describe CTCRI's original approach to funding knowledge syntheses grants, and how evaluation led to a new approach to improve the quality of the evidence for policy and program decision-makers.

Methods: The original best practices model has endured as a useful framework. However, a traditional research funding approach for knowledge syntheses had mixed results, even though the CTCRI requested researchers to partner with end users. A new approach, called “user-directed”, requires research users to identify important, timely topics and assist in designing a specific RFA. Applications are competitive and scientifically reviewed. However, CTCRI and the research user will work with applicants if needed to improve promising proposals to meet scientific standards. Funds are awarded as a contract with specific requirements to ensure analysis of the range of information needed for decisions. Progress is monitored and the end product reviewed before final payment. The product is a technical report with comprehensive information on inputs, activities, and outcomes of the program or policy and is disseminated widely to potential users of the information.

Results: A user-directed contract funding opportunity that will ensure a final product that practitioners and policy-makers can use for decisions: The results will be monitored, and the process adjusted as needed.