Wyoming Humanities Spark Grants

The Spark Grant is administered by Wyoming Humanities (WYH), an organization committed to supporting projects that explore cultural expression through humanities disciplines. WYH defines the humanities broadly to include history, arts, literature, philosophy, religion, laws, languages, and cultural studies. These grants are designed to support publicly accessible programming that encourages dialogue, critical thinking, and reflection on the human experience. The Spark Grant program offers funding of up to $2,000 for humanities-centered projects. Applications are accepted on a monthly basis, with deadlines falling on the first business day of each month. However, the 2025 Spark Grant cycle is currently paused, as all available funds have been allocated. Interested applicants are encouraged to check back in July 2025 for updates regarding future funding opportunities. Projects awarded through this grant must begin at least 30 days after the application deadline, and award notifications are issued approximately 15 days after submission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit state or federally recognized organizations such as libraries, schools, colleges, tribal nations, or museums, and must possess a valid EIN and UEI. Fiscal sponsorship is allowed, provided the sponsor submits a letter of involvement detailing their collaboration and alignment with the proposed project. All projects must incorporate a humanities professional who plays a central role, either as a designer, presenter, or facilitator. This expert must have demonstrated experience or advanced academic credentials in a humanities field. The inclusion of this professional ensures that supported programs maintain a focus on education and critical engagement. Applicants are required to provide a 1:1 match for all grant funds using non-federal dollars. Matches can be in the form of in-kind or cash contributions. Honoraria for humanities professionals are allowed but generally limited to $350 per person per event unless special approval is granted. Grant funds may also be used to pay salaries under strict conditions: the compensated work must lie outside the individual’s regular duties, and no more than half of the grant request may be allocated toward such costs. Applications must be submitted through the Foundant online grant system. First-time applicants must register and confirm their organization’s eligibility. WYH staff offer feedback on draft applications and provide support during project development. Once awarded, grantees must electronically sign a grant agreement, notify their state legislators, and keep WYH informed about program dates and updates. A final report, due 45 days after project completion, is required and must include attendance numbers, a program summary, and financial documentation. For questions or support, applicants are encouraged to contact Chloé Flagg, Director of Grants, via email at chloe@thinkwy.org or by scheduling a call or Zoom meeting.