Delta Dental of Iowa Revolving Loan Fund
Supporting dentist ownership. Strengthening access to care. Investing in Iowa communities.
The Delta Dental of Iowa Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) offers low‑interest financing to help Iowa dentists start, purchase, or transition private practices by reducing financial barriers to ownership and supporting access to dental care statewide.
In 2026, Delta Dental of Iowa made a $2 million investment to establish the RLF, reinforcing its commitment to dentist ownership, workforce sustainability, and community access to care. The fund is administered by Development Partners Network (DPN), a subsidiary of the Iowa Area Development Group (IADG), which brings experience in practice financing and economic development.
Created in partnership with IADG, the RLF supports dentists at key career milestones while advancing Delta Dental of Iowa’s long-term commitment to healthier communities.
Purpose of the fund
Delta Dental of Iowa created the Revolving Loan Fund to:
- Support dentist ownership and long‑term success
- Strengthen access to care in Iowa communities
- Align financing tools with existing workforce and access‑to‑care initiatives
As loans are repaid, funds are reinvested to support future Iowa dentists and create a sustainable resource for years to come.
Who can apply
This program may be a good fit if you are:
- A licensed DDS or DMD in good standing with the Iowa Dental Board
- Starting a new private practice or purchasing an existing practice in the state of Iowa
- Seeking support with down payment gaps, startup costs, or ownership transitions
- Planning to operate three or fewer practice locations
Projects located in FIND Dental Loan Repayment Priority Areas will receive priority consideration.
This program is not intended for:
- The general refinance of debt
- Large construction projects or major expansions or dental equipment upgrades (or replacement) without a change in ownership or new practice ownership
- Cosmetic renovations where construction is the primary cost driver
- Large, multi‑location expansion models that extend beyond independent practice ownership
If you are unsure whether your project fits, IADG can help you explore options.
How the loan can be used
Loan funds can support costs directly related to establishing or acquiring a dental practice, including:
- Practice acquisition or startup expenses
- Dental and office equipment
- Working capital
- Business valuation or goodwill (“blue sky”)
- Limited, practice‑critical remodeling needed to deliver care (e.g., operatories, sterilization areas, ADA updates, equipment‑related electrical or plumbing work)
Loan details at-a-glance
- Loan amount: $50,000–$500,000
- Interest rate: 1%
- Typical loan term: 5–7 years (up to 10 years depending on use)
- Origination fee: Covered by Delta Dental of Iowa (not charged to the dentist)
The RLF can be used as:
- Gap financing alongside a bank or lender
- A primary lender when traditional financing is unavailable or unfavorable
Loan terms are based on the project and overall financing structure.
How to get started
Attend one of the educational webinars to learn more about the application process:
- Friday, March 6, 12 p.m.
- Thursday, March 12, 6 p.m.
Register for a webinar.
The RLF will follow a two‑step application process starting March 9:
- Pre‑Application: A short pre‑application helps determine eligibility and funding priority. The pre-application form will be available to download and complete March 9.
- Full Application: If invited, IADG works with you to complete a full application and financing package.
Questions?
Contact:
Ethan Pitt
Vice President, Community Initiatives
Iowa Area Development Group
515-777-7308
[email protected]