Sparklight®, a leading fiber-fueled internet provider, has announced the launch of its 2026 “Dream Bigger” contest, offering $30,000 to support science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education for K–12 students. Twelve winning schools or organizations will each receive $2,500 to enhance their STEM programs.
The annual contest is designed to help educators introduce hands-on STEM experiences to classrooms, equipping students with essential skills for curiosity, innovation, and problem-solving.
“STEM education is critical to helping students thrive in an increasingly digital world,” said Trish Niemann, Sparklight Vice President of Communications Strategy. “Dream Bigger allows us to invest in projects that give students meaningful, hands-on exposure to STEM concepts and enrich their learning experiences.”
Eligible applicants include K–12 schools and organizations in communities served by Sparklight. Entrants are asked to submit a photo and a written summary explaining how the award will be used to support a STEM project—such as classroom equipment, robotics or science competitions, curriculum development, or other materials—and how the project will benefit students.
Entries for the 2026 contest will be accepted from February 17th through March 10th at sparklight.com/contest. Finalists will be selected by Sparklight, and 12 winners will be chosen through public voting from March 12 to March 18. Winning schools and organizations will be featured on Sparklight’s social media channels, highlighting innovative STEM programs and the educators who lead them.
Since the program’s inception, Sparklight has awarded nearly $200,000 to STEM initiatives across its service areas. For more information about Sparklight’s internet services, visit sparklight.com, business.sparklight.com, or follow the company on Facebook, Instagram, and X.