The American Optometric Association (AOA) and American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) unveiled plans to award more than 2,000 travel grants for AOA+, an event for the next generation of optometry, at Optometry’s Meeting 2026 in Phoenix, Ariz.
This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden for optometry students, early career optometrists, and optometric educators. Travel grant eligibility is tied to registering for Optometry’s Meeting, which takes place June 17-20, 2026.
Since launching in 2017, AOA+ has connected more than 4,500 young and future optometrists with AOA’s network of established leaders, serving as a launchpad for career acceleration, advocacy, and community-building.
According to the AOA, the 2026 event will feature a robust program designed to foster professional growth and help attendees build a lifelong network of support.
About the Grants
AOA+ travel grants amounts for students will be based on the region where their school is located, with east region students receiving $850, while class of 2026 graduates are eligible for $1,000 travel grants regardless of school location. Attendance of AOA+ “student” events will be mandatory to retain travel grant eligibility.
New doctors with graduation years of 2021-2025 will be eligible for $500 grants. Full-time optometric educators and faculty at schools or colleges of optometry who are primarily engaged in school-related activities can also receive $500.
How to Apply
Registration launches in January 2026. Grants will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is encouraged.
To be considered for a travel grant, eligible students and professionals must register for Optometry’s Meeting in January 2026. Candidates can sign up now for an alert email for early registration and grant applications.
Event Highlights
After kicking off with an Opening General, AOA+ 2026 attendees can expect multiple key features and networking opportunities, including:
- Coffee Connection, a regional student networking event
- Student-Recommended Education Sessions on topics such as communication, business operations, emotional intelligence, and career exploration
- AOA Leadership Lab: From Campus to Capitol, which features personal advocacy journeys and legislative success stories
- Residency Summit to explore diverse career opportunities
- Leadership Zone to connect with state affiliates
- AOA+ Town Hall with AOA leadership
Other highlights will include a Career Fair, Headshot Hub, LinkedIn Lounge, and Mock Interview Studio.