To submit a project for SO-Link, applicants must meet the following criteria and include all required materials in their application.

• The research project should clearly align with Special Olympics mission to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
• The research project must have current Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval from an accredited institution for Human Subjects Research.
• The primary investigator (PI) or research team will be asked to demonstrate experience in disability-related research, which may include working with individuals with IDD, or submit a plan to include that expertise on the team.
• The project must include an easy-read description so Special Olympics athletes and families can understand the study purpose and participation expectations.
• The research team must agree to share any resulting publications, white papers, presentations, or journal articles with Special Olympics when they become public and to acknowledge Special Olympics in any related publications or presentations.

Applicants must complete the SO-Link Project Submission Form provided below. Each application must include:

• A project description, both in technical and easy-read terms, outlining key objectives and the potential to improve the health and well-being of people with IDD.
• Information on study design, including eligibility criteria, sample size, participant composition, and recruitment plan.
• IRB approval documentation from an accredited institution.
• A biographical sketch or CV highlighting research qualifications including relevant experience with IDD populations.
• A commitment statement confirming the sharing of publications and acknowledgment of Special Olympics support.

1. Your application will undergo a preliminary screening process to ensure that you meet the minimum requirements for review.
2. A committee will review your application. The committee will either approve, reject, or ask you to revise your application.
3. If your application is approved, we will contact you to coordinate the distribution of an easy-read email detailing your project, to eligible athletes. The email will contain an invitation link to your project for interested athletes. Once an athlete is directed to your study link, it is up to the investigator/team to evaluate whether the athlete is right for your project.

You CANNOT recontact SO-Link participants for any current or future project other than the one that was approved (i.e., you may not create your own athlete list from our list).

Please contact solink@specialolympics.org