The dental industry in the United States is experiencing a remarkable period of growth and innovation, with dentists playing an increasingly vital role in healthcare. As we look towards 2030, the U.S. dental market is projected to reach an impressive $230 billion in annual spending, demonstrating the industry's robust potential and the essential nature of dental care.

As a dentist, you make significant contributions to public health by increasing access to care for underserved populations. Many of you work in safety net clinics, federally qualified health centers, and dental service organizations, providing essential care to millions of Americans who might otherwise struggle to access dental services.

Below are just a few of the initiatives that offer business grants for dental practices:

Capital Clinic Access (CCA) grants: Offered by the Arcora Foundation, these grants support safety net dental programs, including nonprofit dental clinics. They provide funding of up to $250,000 for expanding or renovating dental clinics, purchasing equipment, and upgrading software and technology.

NADP Foundation grants: Although primarily aimed at larger organizations, these grants focus on improving access to oral healthcare and demonstrating innovations in oral healthcare delivery. Dental practices could potentially benefit from partnerships with grant recipients to implement new technologies or delivery models.

Small Grant Program by AAPHD Foundation: This program offers grants of up to $5,000 and $10,000 for projects that can be completed within a year or 18 months, respectively.

CareQuest Institute grants: Through their Advancing Equity Through Oral Health Fund and Emergent & Relief Fund, CareQuest offers grants that could potentially benefit dental practices, especially those serving underserved communities or implementing innovative care delivery models.

Specialty Dental Clinic Grant Program: A California-based program offering grants up to $5 million per grantee to increase access to oral health care for special health care needs populations through the development and expansion of specialty dental clinics.

Rural Health Care Services Outreach Grant Program: Provides funding to rural communities to establish or expand access to health care services, including oral health services, through innovative delivery models like mobile clinics.

SBA 8(a) Business Development Program: Designed for minority-owned and socially disadvantaged businesses, this program offers grants, mentoring, and access to government contracts.

Galaxy Grant: Up to $2,750 grants for women, individuals of color, and entrepreneurs from low-income backgrounds.

National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE): Up to $4,000 grants for small businesses with potential for growth.

FedEx Small Business Grant Contest: Awards up to $50,000 to small businesses, along with FedEx shipping credits and print services.

American Express® Backing Small Businesses: In partnership with American Express, the Backing Small Businesses grant program small businesses with community reach and/​or cultural significance.

Veteran-Owned Business Opportunities: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers grants and resources for veterans looking to start a business.

Women's Business Centers (WBCs) Grants: Financial assistance for women-owned businesses or those primarily serving women.