Iowa nonprofits working to improve oral and overall health are encouraged to apply for funding through the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation’s Community of Health and System & Capacity Building grant programs. Letters of Intent for the Foundation’s fall grant cycle are due September 2, 2026.
The Foundation is also celebrating its spring grant awardees. Earlier this year, 16 organizations received a combined $937,086 to strengthen community health systems, expand access to care, and improve oral and overall health outcomes for Iowans.
“Delta Dental of Iowa and its Foundation are committed to partnering with organizations that share our mission of building healthier communities by improving the health and smiles of all Iowans,” said Suzanne Heckenlaible, executive director, Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation. “We’re inspired by the creativity, dedication, and impact of our spring grant recipients. Their work demonstrates the power of community-driven solutions, and we look forward to supporting more innovative efforts through our upcoming grant cycle.”
Spring 2026 Grant Investments Advance Oral and Overall Health
Oral Health Grants
A total of $680,086 was awarded to 11 organizations advancing oral health initiatives. Among the projects funded is a first-of-its-kind dental hygiene training partnership between Community Health Care and Eastern Iowa Community College in Davenport.
Launching in 2027, the Foundation’s $200,000 investment will support the creation of a new Dental Hygiene Associate of Applied Science program at Eastern Iowa Community College and the modernization of clinical training spaces at Community Health Care, where students will gain hands-on experience serving patients. The investment is expected to expand training opportunities for future dental hygienists, strengthen the region’s oral health workforce pipeline, and increase access to oral health care in eastern Iowa.
Overall Health Grants
A total of $257,000 was awarded to five organizations supporting early childhood screenings and services, school-based mental health access, integrated family support, and vision care for underserved populations.
Among the recipients, Iowa KidSight’s Vision for Tomorrow Project received $100,000 to replace 46 of 93 aging vision screening devices. The new equipment will help volunteers continue providing statewide vision screenings for young children, particularly in underserved and rural communities, helping identify vision concerns early and connect families to care.
Fall Grant Cycle Now Open
The Foundation is currently accepting Letters of Intent through September 2, 2026, for its Community of Health and System & Capacity Building grants programs. These programs support organizations working to improve oral, vision, and overall health outcomes for Iowans.
Applications are reviewed twice each year. Organizations interested in applying can learn more about funding priorities, eligibility requirements, and application timelines by visiting the Foundation website. Learn more about the Foundation’s grants at deltadentalia.com/foundation.
