The Fiscal Year 2026 Quality Improvement Fund - Improving Access to Dental Services for Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders (QIF-DNDD) is a federal grant program administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This funding initiative reflects HRSA’s ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations, with a particular focus on enhancing access to primary health care services through its Health Center Program. The grant is designed to address significant gaps in dental care services for children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), such as autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities, by supporting health centers in the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions.
This one-time funding opportunity seeks to build on existing models of care and foster innovation among health center award recipients. The central aim is to expand access to both preventive and additional dental services tailored specifically to the needs of children with NDDs. HRSA emphasizes not only increasing service availability but also ensuring that such services lead to measurable improvements in patient dental health outcomes. Funded projects are expected to employ proven strategies and adapt them to suit the unique needs of the target population, using models that are both scalable and sustainable.
Eligible applicants must be current Health Center Program award recipients with an active H80 award, as authorized under Section 330(e) of the Public Health Service Act. This ensures that only organizations with an established infrastructure and proven service delivery capacity can apply. Applicants are required to submit a detailed project work plan that includes specific innovative approaches for service expansion and workforce training. Workforce development is a core component of the program, and applicants must demonstrate how they will advance the skills and knowledge of their staff to better serve children with NDDs.
The submission process involves electronic application through Grants.gov, with applications due by April 13, 2026, no later than 11:59 p.m. ET. The estimated posting date for the full application materials is February 11, 2026. Award notifications are anticipated by August 24, 2026, and the project period will begin on September 1, 2026. There are no cost-sharing or matching fund requirements for this program, making it more accessible to eligible entities. A total of $50 million is allocated for the program, with each award set at $2 million, and HRSA expects to make approximately 25 awards.
HRSA encourages all eligible health centers to prepare competitive proposals that align with the agency’s goals of equity, access, and outcome improvement. For inquiries, the designated contact is available via email at bphcfunding@hrsa.gov or by phone at 301-594-4300. While this is a one-time investment, the funding is structured to lay the groundwork for longer-term system changes in how dental care is delivered to children with complex needs. This forecasted opportunity provides sufficient lead time for interested applicants to begin preparing their submissions and collaborating internally to design robust, impactful initiatives.
