Spark Fund

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

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)

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.