Introduction: Direct-care rehabilitation nurses often want to lead research but lack the skills and resources. Many research capacity building (RCB) models have been used and evaluated, yet the literature is thin regarding the early steps of program development for direct-care nurses. Aim: This paper describes one team's experience of the process of developing a RCB program. Method: This paper explains steps in the developmental process of a program of RCB for direct-care rehabilitation nurses. The process is framed by a specific theoretical model and the practical, contextual assumptions which had to be taken into account. Results: The two overarching conceptual components in the developmental process were determining objectives, and identifying and resolving risks. Steps in the process are outlined, together with how risks were managed while progressing toward the goal: the inaugural Rehabilitation and Research Masterclass Program - Nursing (RaMP-N). The Program is briefly outlined. Discussion: This paper fills a gap by describing the formative stage of the RaMP-N that was crucial to its quality and relevance. The experience upskilled and energised the team, and generated small nurse-led research projects. The program format and content remained flexible and tailored, consistent with adult learning principles and rehabilitation nursing. Further research is needed to test the transferability and sustainability of the RaMP-N. Conclusion: The RaMP-N program strengthened rehabilitation nurses' engagement with research. Conversations, consideration, consultation, commitment and collaboration underpinned the evolving program as strategies and modifications were identified, applied and evaluated. The process enhanced the program team's leadership skills and participants' research skills.