Sparklight Launches $30,000 STEM Education Contest

The 'Dream Bigger' contest will award 12 schools and organizations $2,500 each for hands-on STEM projects.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Sparklight, a telecommunications company, has announced the launch of its 2026 'Dream Bigger' contest, which will award a total of $30,000 to support science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education for K-12 students. Twelve schools or organizations will each receive $2,500 to help fund hands-on STEM projects, including classroom equipment, robotics programs, science competitions, curriculum development, and other materials aimed at enhancing STEM learning opportunities.

Why it matters

STEM education is crucial for preparing students for the increasingly digital and technology-driven world. By investing in hands-on STEM projects, Sparklight's contest aims to provide practical exposure to STEM concepts and support schools and organizations in their efforts to enhance STEM learning for students.

The details

Eligible applicants include K-12 schools and organizations located in communities served by Sparklight. Applicants must submit a photo and a written summary explaining how the funds would be used and how the proposed project would benefit students. Entries will be accepted from February 17 through March 10, and finalists will be selected by the company, with winners determined through public voting from March 12 through March 18. Winning organizations will also be featured on Sparklight's social media platforms.

  • The contest will launch on February 17, 2026.
  • The entry period will run from February 17 to March 10, 2026.
  • Finalists will be selected by the company, and public voting will take place from March 12 to March 18, 2026.

The players

Sparklight

A telecommunications company that is launching the 'Dream Bigger' contest to support STEM education for K-12 students.

Trish Niemann

The vice president of communications strategy for Sparklight, who stated that the contest is designed to invest in projects that give students practical exposure to STEM concepts.

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What they’re saying

“STEM education is critical to helping students thrive in an increasingly digital world.”

— Trish Niemann, Vice President of Communications Strategy (dailyfly.com)

What’s next

The winners of the 'Dream Bigger' contest will be announced on March 18, 2026, and the winning schools and organizations will receive their $2,500 grants to support their STEM education projects.

The takeaway

Sparklight's 'Dream Bigger' contest demonstrates the company's commitment to investing in STEM education and providing hands-on learning opportunities for K-12 students. This initiative aligns with the growing recognition of the importance of STEM skills in preparing students for the future workforce and technological advancements.