Spark Grants

Spark Grants offer frequent opportunities for Helena’s Public School teachers to access funds to provide enrichment opportunities for students. Educators may apply for up to $500 per project and Spark Grants are offered in four cycles per school year. The Foundation awards $20,000 in Spark Grants every school year.

Like Great Ideas Grants, Spark Grants are selected through a competitive process, but with a scaled-down application form. The goal of Spark Grants is to offer more flexibility and ease of access for smaller projects. Thank you to the many educators who helped us to shape this new program, launched in 2020/2021.

Spark Grant Application is now an online form!

Who may apply for a grant?

• All full or part-time teachers employed by the Helena School District are eligible to apply
• Multiple educators may collaborate on projects – applications must be signed by all collaborating educators
• All applications must be signed by the building administrator
• Other partnering entities may not submit a grant proposal as the primary applicant.

Applying for a grant

• Educators may apply for both a Great Ideas Grant and a Spark Grant in the same grant cycle for different projects, but
• Educators may not apply for both types in the same cycle for the same project.
• Educators may apply for only 1 Spark Grant per cycle

**HEF relies on strong partnerships with our local community to make our grant programs possible. We actively seek sponsorship support from Helena businesses, individuals, and organizations, recognizing that their investment directly strengthens our schools and students. Therefore we are committed to supporting businesses that employ members of our community, contribute to our local tax base, and participate in the civic life of Helena. While online retailers such as Amazon may offer lower prices we encourage you, whenever possible, to prioritize local items and vendors when sourcing materials for your grant budget. These community connections are essential to the long-term sustainability of HEF programs.**

What can Great Ideas and Spark Grants fund?

• NEW projects only – not ongoing activities
• Projects for which funding is not available from the HSD
• Projects that are in-class or field trips
• Projects that infuse new elements of creativity
• Projects that extend learning beyond the limitations of the textbooks

Grant funds may NOT be used for any of the following:

• Monetary awards for students
• District- provided textbooks and materials, technology, etc.
• Workshops or professional development fees
• Stipends for District employees
• Substitute teachers during the working day unless teachers are with their class involved with the grant project