The Dr. Edward B. Shils Entrepreneurial Fund (The Shils Fund), named after the late Dr. Edward B. Shils, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to innovative approaches and entrepreneurial leadership to advance oral health. Dr. Shils was the Executive Director of the Dental Manufacturers of America and the Dental Dealers of America for almost 50 years. He was an extraordinary innovator, educator and business leader with an unparalleled entrepreneurial spirit and saw a need for business to encourage more innovation and entrepreneurship at every level. Established in 2002 by his friends and colleagues the dental industry, the Shils Fund honors the pioneering vision of Dr. Shils and inspires innovation in current and future health care entrepreneurs.
Through investing in and championing award programs, the Shils Fund recognizes outstanding individuals, organizations and programs who positively influence the oral health community and on public health.
From dental student innovation competitions showcasing young entrepreneurs to the sponsorship of career development and mentorship programs for aspiring dental entrepreneurs, the Shils Fund cultivates innovation and enrich the next generation of oral health care leaders.
In our 20th year, The Shils Fund is shifting its activities to cultivate a new, diverse generation of oral health entrepreneurs. Through ongoing collaboration with leaders in the health care industry, The Shils Fund will be the funding source for the development of innovative ideas from students, academia, community-based organizations, young clinicians, and diversity organizations. Together, we are advancing innovation in oral health and its impact on overall health and empower the next generation of dental entrepreneurs.