Foundation Funding

The Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation is pleased to partner with organizations across Iowa to strengthen and transform the health and smiles of all Iowans. 

Grant Guidelines

Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Foundation's 2026 Grant Guidelines. 2026 Grant Applications will open the week of January 12th. 

The Foundation will be hosting virtual information sessions in January to discuss the 2026 grant updates, guidelines and ways to partner. Learn more and register here. 

Commonly Asked Questions/What to Expect When Applying for a Grant: 

• All funding/grant requests must be submitted through the online grants system
• Before creating an account or beginning an application, please review the Grant/Project Fit Screening Tool to help determine how well your project aligns. If you decide to proceed to the online grants system, you will be asked to complete a similar eligibility quiz. 
• Starting in 2026 there will be a Letter of Interest (LOI) process for both Community of Health Grants and System & Capacity Building Grants. Please note LOIs are submitted electronically via a built template within the online grants system.
• Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the Foundation team to discuss your project prior to applying. 
• Check the Grant Guidelines document for important grant program dates/deadlines. 
• Starting in 2026, the Rethink Your Drink program will be focused on outdoor water bottle filling stations in Iowa communities along trailheads, and in public parks. 
• As a trust-based funder, we strive to be open and responsive in our grantmaking.  Applicants can expect to receive notification about funding decisions as follows: 
  • System & Capacity Building - 60-90 days 
  • Community of Health Grants - 45 days
  • Rethink Your Drink - 45 days
  • Smile Grants & Toothbrush donations - turnaround in 2-3 weeks  

Requests that are reviewed on a continuous basis: 

• Smile Grants: $10,000 or less, these grants are designed to support short-term projects that are primarily educational in nature such as providing educational materials or supplies related to the Foundation's core initiatives. Applications open in January and accepted on an ongoing basis until all funds are allocated. ​

• Toothbrush Donations: 

  This program is designed for oral health projects requesting toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss needed to support oral health programs. Applications will be accepted from nonprofit organizations on a rolling basis throughout the year and must include an oral health education component. 

The Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation team is eager to learn more about your work and explore how we might partner to strengthen and transform the health and smiles of all Iowans. Contact our Foundation Team to schedule a time talk.