How We Work

Does your group have a project or issue linked to environmental sustainability?

Not-for-profit and community organizations based in Ottawa with projects or issues related to environmental sustainability are invited to submit a project application.

 How do we match projects to advisors?

  1. Community groups submit the project application form.

  2. The approved projects are shared with our network of advisors.

  3. Advisors select projects they want to work on.

  4. Advisors and projects are matched through OETN.

  5. OETN conducts regular check-ins and evaluates the working experience via survey.

Currently we are seeking applications for projects which meet the following criteria:

  • Project description should demonstrate that your organization is somehow invested in the project and has the capacity to make the project a success.

    OETN wants to see that some up-front work has been done and that funding or on-the-ground support exists to make the OETN project a success.

  • Projected timelines must be well defined and include a start date, finish date and include any critical dates. Generally, the projects we approve last between 4 to 24 months.

    For large endeavours lasting more than 24 months, we recommend you start your relationship with OETN by identifying a shorter phase such as an advisor to help with the design phase or implementation phase.

  • The “what help you would like from OETN” section should demonstrate a need and explain how the right expert or research support from OETN would enhance the quality and effectiveness of your project.

    OETN Advisors are consultants who provide advice. The advice and/or research support OETN provides must have a clear use or application.

  • “Enhancing environmental sustainability in Ottawa” is the common theme of all of our projects. The expert advice and/or research support must have a clear use or application towards this goal.

    Our experience so far has been that if your organization is looking for advice or support to produce a report that will collect dust on the shelf, it will be very difficult to answer this question.

  • The deliverables/outcomes of the project must be measurable, likely to happen and make a difference (Substantive and potential).