RCOT 10-week side hustle experiment: OT edition
This event is only available for members. If you’re not yet a member, join us and come along! Please log in or register.
Included in your membership
...You’re not alone. Many occupational therapists dream of creating something new whether it’s a passion project, your own OT business, or flexible private practice, but the leap from idea to reality feels overwhelming.
This 10-week online programme could be just what you need!
It’s designed to help you start and grow a business without debt or traditional business plans. Through practical, action-based learning you’ll gain skills to turn your ideas into reality.
Learn from experts in:
- Sales and marketing
- Design and social media
- Productivity and money mindset
- Networking and pitching
- Photography and media
- Artificial intelligence
You’ll also connect with RCOT’s Professional Advisor for Independent Practice and fellow RCOT members throughout the journey, bringing your OT perspective to every stage of development.
I built a functional professional website in half a day … And it secured me a speaking engagement that put me face-to-face with my ideal clients!
OT programme participant
Who is it for?
This programme is for any qualified occupational therapist - at any stage of your career - who is ready to explore new possibilities. Whether you’re an early-career practitioner or seasoned professional - if you want autonomy, creativity, and impact this is for you.
There is no financial cost to participate in this programme. However we aim to foster a pay-it-forward culture within our independent practice community. As part of this we encourage participants to take on a leadership role within our practice and regional networks, such as serving as an Independent Practice Lead. The activities involved in these roles complement and contribute to the programme itself.
When is it?
We'll be running the programme twice:
- Group one will start with an online kick-off party on Friday 16 January 2026, followed by weekly live discussions every Friday at 4.30-6.00pm from 23 January to 27 March 2026.
- Group two will start with an online kick-off party on Friday 10 April 2026, followed by weekly live discussions every subsequent Friday at 4.30-6.00pm from 17 April to 19 June 2026.
Why join?
- It's included in your membership - there's no additional cost.
- You'll have networking opportunities inside and outside the OT world.
- You'll gain practical, actionable learning you can implement immediately.
How do I get involved?
- Submit your expression of interest.
- Complete weekly activities over 10 weeks.
- Decide if you want to continue - by then you’ll have a real side hustle in motion.
Tell me more
The challenge:
OT degrees teach us how to help people thrive but rarely how to build a business. Add fears about financial instability and time constraints and it’s easy to shelve your dreams. But what if you could test your idea without quitting your job or spending a fortune?
The solution:
'RCOT’s 10-week side hustle experiment: OT edition' is designed for therapists who want autonomy, creativity, and impact without the overwhelm. This free programme - included in your RCOT membership - gives you a step-by-step roadmap to validate your idea, build confidence, and launch on a shoestring budget.
What makes it different?
Unlike generic business courses, this programme blends entrepreneurial know-how with the compliance and professional nuances of occupational therapy. You’ll learn from experts in marketing, design, productivity, networking, and even AI while staying grounded in OT values.
Ready to stop waiting for permission?
Be the hero of your OT journey. Submit your expression of interest today!