CareQuest Institute is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving oral health outcomes by advancing health equity and transforming the oral health system in the United States. The Institute emphasizes a collaborative, community-informed, and research-driven approach to grantmaking, with a commitment to ensuring that historically marginalized populations have access to comprehensive oral health care. It focuses on systemic solutions that align with its core mission of improving access, quality, and equity in oral health.

This funding opportunity supports a wide range of activities within three core priority areas: expanding and protecting access to dental coverage through federal and state policy advancements, engaging underserved populations in policy and systems change efforts, and fostering innovation in oral health care delivery through person-centered care models. CareQuest particularly supports efforts to add comprehensive dental benefits in Medicare, expand or sustain Medicaid dental benefits, and meaningfully engage communities in shaping policies that impact their access to care. Special emphasis is placed on racial and health equity, with a strong preference for initiatives that reflect the voices and experiences of historically underserved communities.

Eligible projects may also include community-based research and advocacy that inform systems change. Funded activities may involve evaluating oral health interventions’ impact on total cost of care, exploring the efficacy of teledentistry and minimally invasive care, and assessing population health trends related to oral health equity. A critical component of the grant is the use of data to drive systems change, promote evidence-based care models, and support policies grounded in the lived experiences of affected communities.

CareQuest Institute follows a two-phase application process. The first phase requires the submission of a concept paper of up to 500 words, describing the issue, project scope, and funding rationale. All organizations must submit this initial concept, which can be entered at any time through the Fluxx online grants management portal. Upon review, applicants that strongly align with the Institute’s goals are invited to submit a full proposal, including a detailed narrative, work plan, and budget. Conversations with the grants team prior to submission are encouraged.

The Institute funds only nonprofit or not-for-profit organizations based in the United States and its territories. It does not provide funding to individuals or for-profit entities. Additionally, CareQuest does not fund capital expenses, direct services, mobile vans, or procedural payments. While no specific funding minimums or maximums are outlined, the organization emphasizes flexibility and alignment with strategic priorities when determining award amounts.

The grant timeline for 2025 includes five cycles: September 16, 2024 to November 22, 2024 (proposal due January 8, 2025, awards in early April); January 20 to February 20, 2025 (proposal due April 1, awards in mid-August); March 14 to May 16, 2025 (proposal due July 1, awards in mid-October); June 13 to August 1, 2025 (proposal due September 19, awards on December 15); and October 10 to November 20, 2025, with awards made in 2026. Applicants should use the Fluxx portal to register, submit concepts, and manage their proposals. Additional guidance and FAQs are available on the CareQuest website or via direct communication with the grants team at grants@carequest.org.