Calhoun Cunty, AL – Sparklight, a fiber-powered internet provider, has announced the launch of its 2026 “Dream Bigger” contest, an initiative designed to support science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education for K–12 students. The program will award a total of $30,000 to schools and educational organizations, with 12 winners each receiving $2,500.
The annual contest is intended to help educators bring hands-on STEM learning opportunities into classrooms and community programs. According to Sparklight, the funding can be used for a variety of projects, including classroom equipment, robotics programs, science competitions, curriculum development or other educational materials that enhance student engagement in STEM.
“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.”
K–12 schools and organizations located within communities served by Sparklight are eligible to apply. Applicants must submit a photo and written summary explaining how the award would be used to support a STEM-related project and how it would benefit students.
Entries for the 2026 contest are open from Feb. 17 through March 10 and can be submitted online. After the application period closes, Sparklight will select finalists, and public voting will determine the 12 winning schools or organizations from March 12 through March 18. Winners will also be featured on Sparklight’s social media channels to highlight innovative STEM programs and the educators leading them.
Since the launch of the Dream Bigger initiative, Sparklight reports it has awarded nearly $200,000 to STEM programs across the communities it serves.
Additional information about Sparklight’s services and initiatives can be found on the company’s website and official social media platforms.
