Board of Trustees Approves 2026 Budget 

Progressing toward long-term financial health in 2026

Over the past several months, ADA Leadership has made significant strides in strengthening our financial foundation while continuing to deliver the exceptional value our members expect and deserve. With a clear focus on sustainability and long-term success, we are pleased to share encouraging progress. 

The 2026 budget, recently approved by the Board of Trustees, reflects this positive momentum. Through disciplined cost management, operational efficiencies, and steady growth in revenue and investment income, our Association continues its deliberate and successful path toward full financial stability.  

Our financial reset, initiated in early 2025, has already produced measurable results. After years of strategic investment to drive growth, the Board took decisive steps last July to reduce the 2025 budget by more than $20 million, effectively reversing the trend of rising deficits. These actions have positioned ADA for continued improvement and resilience. 

While both 2025 and 2026 will technically reflect deficit budgets, the outlook is significantly brighter than in recent years. The projected 2026 net cash outflow of approximately $4 million represents a substantial improvement and requires only a minimal draw from ADA reserves to support the full scope of planned initiatives. 

 As we move through the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, the ADA remains firmly committed to responsible stewardship, strategic growth, and ensuring your membership continues to deliver meaningful, long-term benefits.  

In this season of gratitude, ADA Leadership extends its heartfelt appreciation for your dedication to dentistry, your service to your communities, and your continued role in strengthening our Association.  

Thank you for being the heart of the American Dental Association — and for helping shape a future filled with progress, stability, and opportunity.