Dental Assistant Program Awarded a Grant of $94,747

Canby, MN — The Dental Assistant program at the Canby campus of Minnesota West Community and Technical College, is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a grant of $94,747 from the 2025 Clinical Dental Education Innovations Grant Program. "We are honored to receive these dollars,” stated Dr. Arthur Brown, Provost. “This funding will enable us to renovate and improve our Canby dental clinic, significantly enhancing our ability to deliver top-tier clinical training for future dental assistants who will serve and strengthen our community.”

This grant, administered by the Office of Rural Health and Primary Care under the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), aims to support initiatives that increase dental access for underserved populations and promote innovative clinical dental education and training programs. Eligible applicants include teaching institutions and clinical training sites that prepare dental professionals. To qualify, organizations must provide accredited clinical training.

“Receiving this grant is a significant benefit for our Dental Assistant program,” said Sara Abrahamson, Program Director and Faculty Member. “It enables us to enhance our training and outreach efforts, ultimately improving access to dental care for communities that need it most. We are committed to preparing our students for successful careers while addressing critical needs in our rural areas.”

For further details about grant opportunities through the Office of Rural Health and Primary Care, visit MDH Grants at www.health.state.mn.us.