How much funding does Spark Fund provide?

Spark Fund provides Up to $1,000 in funding.

When is the deadline for Spark Fund?

This grant has a rolling deadline or the deadline has not been announced.

Spark Fund

The Tiny News Collective Inc

Foundation Annual Grants for Journalism Professional Development Grants

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Funding Amount

Up to $1,000

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Spark Fund

Overview: A noncompetitive professional development grant program for Tiny News Collective members designed to support founders on their journey from "founder to leader."

Award Amount: Up to $1,000 per grant

Recurrence: Annual (second round announced in 2026)

Eligible Uses:

Conference attendance and travel

Classes and courses (video storytelling, self-defense, fundraising, bookkeeping)

Training in collective-informed accounting or HR

Professional development that advances organizational growth or sustainability goals

Eligibility:

Must be a Tiny News Collective member

Focus on early-stage, pre-launch or transformative news organizations

Organizations building in underserved communities or covering under-covered issue areas

Impact (2025 Results):

Nearly 80% of recipients reported gaining a new skill or knowledge area

57% reported that the grant significantly advanced their organization's goals

Only 50% found ways to share learnings with other TNC members

Funding Source: Supported by grants from larger funders (specific 2026 funding source not detailed in materials)

Contact: team@tinynewsco.org

How to Apply

Application Process

Application Type: Noncompetitive

Process:
1. Submit application through TNC application form during open application windows
2. Applications reviewed on rolling basis
3. Awards granted to eligible members

Support Available:

Application guides and webinars to help members develop strong proposals

One-on-one coaching with applicants to answer questions and strengthen proposals

Timeline: Applications reviewed on rolling basis; specific deadlines announced in TNC newsletter

Note: Eligibility requires TNC membership. Prospective members should apply to join TNC first through the main membership application process.

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