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Emerging Innovation Grants

The Advanced Innovation Grants (AIG) are designed to support high-impact research projects aligned with emerging trends in orthodontic research, aiming to drive transformative breakthroughs. These grants focus on projects with innovative concepts that have the potential to reshape current practices and bring new approaches into practical, real-world use.

The grants are particularly suited for projects that have moved beyond preliminary stages and are ready to transition into larger-scale applications. By providing funding and support, these grants enable the successful implementation of cutting-edge ideas into clinical practice, addressing significant challenges and driving progress in the orthodontic field.

Key Features of the EIG
Diverse Stakeholder Involvement:
The program encourages collaboration among various stakeholders, including academia, industry, and research institutions. This multidisciplinary approach aims to bring together diverse expertise to create well-rounded and innovative solutions applicable across different sectors of orthodontics.
Translational Focus:
A key priority of the Advanced Innovation Grants is to support projects that can be translated directly into actionable outcomes for orthodontic practice. This includes technologies, techniques, or methodologies that have the potential to enhance patient care, improve treatment outcomes, and advance the field of orthodontics.
Feasibility and Scalability:
The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate strong potential for implementation and scalability. Successful proposals must show that the proposed innovation is not only scientifically sound but also practical and capable of being adapted for widespread use in clinical settings.
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Application Process for AIG
The application process for the Advanced Innovation Grants follows a structured approach to identify and support the most promising projects:
Letter of Intent (LOI):
Interested applicants must first submit a Letter of Intent through the IOF website. This LOI should clearly outline the project’s concept, objectives, and its alignment with the program’s core principles. The goal of the LOI is to provide the Science Committee with an initial understanding of the project's scope and its potential impact in the field of orthodontics.
Alignment with Focus:
After receiving the Letters of Intent, the IOF Science Committee reviews the submissions to ensure that the projects align with the current year's main focus. This step ensures that funded projects address the most pressing challenges and trends in orthodontics. The committee may provide feedback or guidance on refining the project’s focus to better meet the program's objectives.
Full Proposals:
Applicants who submit valid and well-aligned LOIs will be invited to submit full proposals. These proposals will require detailed information about the project’s methodology, expected outcomes, timelines, budget, and the team’s qualifications. Proposals should also address the potential for scalability and real-world application in orthodontic practices. The evaluation of full proposals will be based on scientific merit, innovation, feasibility, and the project’s potential to make a significant impact in the orthodontic field.