You know that access to dental care can be challenging for many underserved Ohioans, and the Ohio Dental Association Foundation is actively addressing this gap through targeted grants. These funds support nonprofits, clinics, and educational programs that serve low-income populations and those with disabilities, all while requiring measurable community impact. As you investigate how these grants operate and who qualifies, you’ll uncover how they’re driving meaningful change in oral health across the state.
Key Takeaways
- The Ohio Dental Association (ODA) Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government agencies that provide oral health programs serving underserved Ohio communities.
- Priority for ODA Foundation grants is given to projects demonstrating documented community need, sustainable impact, and increased capacity to help the underserved.
- The Delta Dental Foundation offers oral health grants up to $10,000 for nonprofits promoting dental care access and equity in Ohio, with applications accepted annually from June to July.
- Grant applicants must show strong community engagement, accountability, measurable outcomes, and sustainability through alternative funding.
- Deadlines for ODA Foundation grant proposals occur quarterly in February, May, August, and November, with reporting required within one year of funding.
Overview of the Ohio Dental Association Foundation
The Ohio Dental Association Foundation (ODAF) has actively advanced oral health in Ohio by awarding over $1.7 million since 1995 through grants and scholarships that support dental students and community programs.
You can count on ODAF to fund grants that strengthen community oral health programs, especially those serving uninsured and low-income Ohioans.
By investing in dental education for future dentists, ODAF guarantees a skilled dental workforce ready to improve access to care.
Your support, alongside member dentists’ contributions and fundraising, fuels these impactful initiatives that shape the future of dentistry in Ohio.
Eligibility and Priorities for Dental Grants
Ohio dental grants focus on supporting nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutions that provide oral health programs targeting underserved populations, particularly Ohioans with disabilities and low-income groups.
To guarantee eligibility, your organization must be based in Ohio, nonprofit or a government entity, and demonstrate clear access to underserved communities.
You must show community engagement, accountability, and measurable outcomes that promote long-lasting oral health equity.
Funding excludes normal overhead, construction, and discriminatory organizations.
Meeting these priorities improves your program’s capacity to sustainably increase oral health access across Ohio.
Grant Guidelines and Evaluation Criteria
Key evaluation criteria include:
- Clear demonstration of program impact and oral health equity
- Evidence of strong community engagement and partnerships
- Accountability in fundraising and management practices
- Sustainability through alternative funding sources
- Serving designated regions: Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina
Limitations and Exclusions for Grant Funding
Grant funding excludes certain expenses and recipients to maintain focus on direct program impact and community benefit. You won’t find funding for building construction or normal overhead costs since grants prioritize programmatic needs. Individuals generally don’t qualify, except for leadership awards, scholarships, and research grants. Organizations engaging in discrimination or political activities face strict exclusions. Additionally, funds aren’t available for loans or commercial projects, ensuring grants support community and educational initiatives only.
| Limitations | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| No funding for building or overhead | Individuals excluded (except specific) |
| No support for commercial projects | Organizations with discriminatory practices |
| No political organizations funding | No grants for loans |
Application Process and Key Deadlines
Although deadlines vary by funding source, dental grant applications in Ohio are typically reviewed quarterly, with key submission dates on February 7, May 29, August 28, and November 13.
To maximize your chances, follow these guidelines closely:
- Complete the grant application via the foundation’s website before submission deadlines
- Contact the foundation beforehand to clarify any questions
- Submit applications on time to guarantee consideration for funding opportunities
- If awarded, submit a grant reporting form within one year detailing project results and expenditures
- Stay organized and attentive to each quarterly deadline to remain eligible for support
Reporting Requirements and Accountability
You must submit a detailed grant reporting form within one year of receiving funding, outlining both your project outcomes and financial expenditures to meet accountability standards.
This form is essential for measuring your project’s impact and directly influences your eligibility for future grants.
Accurate and timely reporting not only guarantees transparency but also helps shape the foundation’s strategic decisions and program effectiveness evaluations.
Reporting Form Submission
- Timely submission within one year or before additional funding
- Clear documentation of project outcomes and expenditures
- Evidence of accountability in fund utilization
- Compliance as a prerequisite for more funding
- Contribution to evaluating the grant’s effectiveness and impact
Financial Accountability Standards
| Requirement | Purpose | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Grant Reporting Form | Detail outcomes & expenditures | Within 1 year or before more funding |
| Accountability Practices | Guarantee effective, transparent use of funds | Ongoing |
| Alternative Funding Sources | Promote sustainability | Encouraged in applications |
Impact Measurement Methods
- Submit comprehensive outcomes and financial data annually
- Comply with reporting for continued funding eligibility
- Demonstrate clearly measurable success criteria
- Support oral health equity through results-driven programs
- Contribute to strategic funding and program development decisions
Scholarship Opportunities for Dental Students
You can access several scholarship opportunities through the ODA Foundation if you’re an Ohio dental student enrolled in an accredited program and a member of ASDA.
Applications require detailed submission materials including essays, financial status verification, and letters of recommendation.
These scholarships, such as the Darryl Dever & David Owsiany Advocacy and the Dr. E. Karl Schneider II Humanitarian Scholarships, reward academic excellence, leadership, and community commitment.
Dental Student Scholarships
Because dental education can be costly, the Ohio Dental Association (ODA) Foundation actively awards scholarships to dental students to alleviate financial burdens and foster Ohio’s future dental workforce.
In 2024, the Foundation allocated $32,000 for scholarships, awarding ten scholarships including the Darryl Dever & David Owsiany Advocacy Scholarship. Since its inception, over 432 scholarships totaling more than $1 million have been awarded, helping you decrease the cost of dental education and improve access to dental care across Ohio.
- Scholarships support Ohio dental students committed to community and leadership
- Financial aid through scholarships reduces your education expenses
- Awarded scholarships recognize advocacy, leadership, and humanitarian efforts
- Funds expand your opportunity to practice in underserved communities
- Scholarships boost oral health by enabling more dentists to serve Ohio populations
Application Requirements
Although the 2025 scholarship application period is currently closed, understanding the application requirements in advance can help you prepare a strong submission when future cycles open.
To apply for the ODA Foundation scholarships, you must be a dental student entering at least your second year at an ADA-accredited school and an Ohio resident. You also need to be a member of ASDA and submit a complete grant application, including financial status verification, two recommendation letters, a curriculum vitae, and essay responses.
Meeting these requirements increases your chance of receiving support for dental education for future dentists through scholarships.
Grants for Increasing Oral Health Access in Ohio
While aiming to improve oral health equity, the Ohio Dental Association (ODA) Foundation has awarded $26,643 in 2024 to increase access to dental care for uninsured and low-income Ohioans.
Since its founding, it has issued 173 grants totaling over $1.7 million to boost oral health statewide. These grants support community programs that expand access to care, especially for vulnerable groups.
- Prioritize grants fostering oral health equity and disability inclusion
- Fund community dental services benefiting low-income populations
- Partner with organizations like MetroHealth and Viola Startzman Clinic
- Enable direct dental care access via funded initiatives
- Promote sustainable oral health improvements across Ohio’s underserved communities
Cosmetic Dentistry Grants Program Details
To qualify for the Cosmetic Dentistry Grants Program, you must first complete a free oral health assessment by a Certified Dental Practitioner to confirm your mouth’s health and complete any required basic dentistry treatments.
Grants are awarded partially on a proportional basis relative to funding availability and treatment plans, with recipients required to proceed with the assigned participating dentist’s treatment plan.
The program allocates up to $1 million annually, distributes grants monthly, and limits applicants to one active application valid for one year.
Eligibility and Assessments
Before you can qualify for the Cosmetic Dentistry Grants Program in Ohio, you must first complete a free oral health assessment conducted by a Certified Dental Practitioner. This assessment determines your eligibility based on your oral health and guarantees that all basic dentistry has been completed before cosmetic procedures begin.
To qualify for a grant, you must:
- Reside within 60 miles of a participating dentist
- Have no untreated basic dental issues compromising function
- Complete basic dentistry treatments prior to applying
- Receive grant notifications within 30 to 60 days after assessment
- Understand that grants, up to $1 million annually, pay dental offices directly
Meeting these criteria secures your eligibility for cosmetic dental care funding.
Grant Awarding Process
Once you complete your basic dentistry and a participating dentist certifies you as eligible, the Cosmetic Dentistry Grants Program evaluates your application to award partial grants on a per capita, percentile basis. The grant recipient must complete the acceptance process within 30 days of notification, which arrives 30 to 60 days after your oral health assessment. Grants support dental care by paying directly to the dental office, ensuring that treatment costs for cosmetic procedures are covered under the agreed plan.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Submission | Submit online with completed basic dentistry |
| Assessment & Eligibility | Free oral health exam by participating dentist |
| Notification | Within 30-60 days, grant amount disclosed |
| Acceptance & Payment | Accept within 30 days; dentist paid directly |
You must apply only once per year and follow your treatment plan closely with your assigned or another participating dentist to maintain grant eligibility.
Funding Conditions
Although grants in the Cosmetic Dentistry Grants Program require you to have completed all basic dental treatments, the funding conditions confirm that only eligible candidates receive support by mandating a free oral health assessment and a signed declaration from a participating dentist confirming no further basic dentistry is needed.
The program awards partial grants monthly on a per capita, percentile basis, and you must proceed with the assigned or participating dentist to maintain eligibility. Your application remains valid for one year, with only one application allowed in that period, emphasizing responsible management of grants and scholarships while supporting education for future dentists.
- Free oral health assessment determines eligibility before cosmetic procedures
- Completion of all basic dentistry required before grant approval
- Signed dentist declaration confirms no additional basic dental work needed
- Partial grants awarded proportionally based on treatment plans and funding available
- Treatment must be done by assigned or participating dentist to qualify for funding
These funding conditions guarantee fair access to financial aid and reinforce standards for quality cosmetic dental care.
Impact of Dental Grants on Education and Community Care
Because dental grants from the Ohio Dental Association (ODA) Foundation strategically address both education and community care, they’ve significantly reduced financial barriers for dental students while expanding access to essential services for underserved populations.
Since 1995, the foundation has awarded 432 scholarships to dental and auxiliary students, easing dental education costs. Additionally, 173 grants have funded projects enhancing access to dental care, directly benefiting low-income and uninsured Ohioans.
In 2024 alone, $32,000 supported scholarships and nine grants totaling $26,643 promoted community service through dental programs, measurably improving oral health equity across Ohio.
How to Support the ODA Foundation
Supporting the Ohio Dental Association Foundation directly fuels its ability to provide scholarships and grants that improve dental education and access to care across Ohio.
The ODA Foundation helps decrease oral health disparities and increases access to dental services for low-income Ohioans through the generous support of our donors.
You can contribute in meaningful ways such as:
- Donate during your ODA membership renewal or when joining
- Participate in the annual fundraiser for scholarships and grants
- Make donations anytime, including in honor or memory of others
- Establish a lasting legacy through planned giving options
- Join Kroger Community Rewards, linking your grocery purchases to the Foundation
These actions guarantee continued support for Ohio’s dental care future.
Notable Grant Recipients and Funded Programs
Among the notable recipients of ODA Foundation grants in 2024 are institutions and organizations that directly advance dental education and expand access to care for underserved Ohioans.
The Abigail Wexner Research Institute received funding to support dental research initiatives, while Case Western Reserve University focuses on dental education for future dentists.
Embracing Futures and Medworks provide essential community service by delivering dental care and hosting health fairs for underserved populations.
MetroHealth and the Viola Startzman Clinic implement programs specifically designed to improve access to dental health services for low-income residents, making a meaningful impact across Ohio communities.
Language Assistance and Accessibility Services
Expanding access to dental grants in Ohio includes ensuring applicants can fully understand and engage with the process regardless of their primary language.
Language assistance and accessibility services in Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Italian, and Vietnamese help break down barriers for non-English speakers. This commitment supports community oral health by promoting equity and inclusion.
These services include:
- Clear communication of grant application requirements
- Multilingual support to improve understanding
- Resources guiding applicants through the process
- Focus on increasing participation from underrepresented groups
- Strategic efforts to improve oral health equity across Ohio communities
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Fix My Teeth if I Don’t Have Money?
You can fix your teeth using affordable options like dental charities offering free or low-cost care, dental schools providing supervised treatments, and payment plans from nonprofits that adjust fees based on your income.
What Is the Ohio Dental Assistance Program?
Nearly 30 years running, the Ohio Dental Assistance Program helps you access Ohio resources by connecting you with volunteer dentists providing free or discounted care. You qualify based on income and health; the application process involves a prescreening to match you locally.
Is Dental Grant a Real Thing?
Yes, a dental grant is a real opportunity you can pursue by meeting specific dental grant eligibility criteria such as being a nonprofit or educational entity focused on oral health. When applying for grants, you’ll need a detailed proposal showing community impact and sustainable benefits. These grants support various types of dental assistance programs aimed at increasing access to care, especially for underserved populations.
How to Get Dental Work When You Can’t Afford It?
You can get affordable care by using community resources like free or low-cost clinics, dental schools, or nonprofit programs. Ask about payment plans or sliding scale fees based on your income to make treatments manageable.
Conclusion
Think of the ODA Foundation’s dental grants as seeds planted in fertile soil—each grant nurtures underserved Ohio communities, helping smiles grow healthier and stronger over time. By supporting nonprofits and educational programs focused on lasting impact, you become the gardener who cultivates access, education, and sustainability in oral healthcare. When you engage with this mission, you’re not just funding programs; you’re sowing a thriving future where oral health flourishes across Ohio.