Updates at the ND Afterschool Network

Big things are happening at the ND Afterschool Network! The Network has been working with TellWell to produce a short documentary on the importance of out-of-school time programming in the state. In December, Network staff had the opportunity to preview the documentary. We can't wait to share the film with you this year!

February will also bring great updates to the Network. Stay up to date with the Network Facebook and newsletter as we announce these exciting changes!

Treasury and IRS reviewing public comments on the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship

"With the recent release of America After 3 PM, we know demand for afterschool is high and American families, especially those with low and middle incomes, are finding it harder to access and afford programs. A new law may provide an opportunity for afterschool programs to serve more children.

The Federal Tax Credit Scholarship, which came into law in the 2025 Reconciliation bill (H.R. 1) under section § 25F, is currently being developed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service..."

2026 Aim High Grant Program: Grants for Middle School OST Programs

Apply by Feb. 6

On behalf of the New York Life Foundation, the Afterschool Alliance invites out-of-school time programs to apply for a competitive grant opportunity to support and bolster the ability of afterschool and summer learning programs to help prepare middle school students for success in high school, college, and life.

Forty general operating grants of $20,000 will be awarded. Applicants must be 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations providing afterschool and summer programming for middle school youth, with at least 80% of those served from families with low incomes. Programs must demonstrate outcomes for middle-school youth that support the transition to high school. Grants will be made in mid-July 2026 and end on September 1, 2027.

Costco Charitable Giving & Grants

Applications Accepted on a Rolling Basis.

Costco Wholesale’s primary charitable efforts specifically focus on programs supporting children, education, and health and human services in the communities where they do business.

To apply for Costco support, organizations must meet the following general requirements:

• Must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
• Focus on supporting children, education, and/or health and human services
• Monetary requests only

Walmart Spark Good Local Grants

Applications Open Feb. 1

Each year, Walmart U.S. stores, Sam’s Clubs and Distribution Centers award local cash grants ranging from $250 to $5000. These local grants are designed to address the unique needs of the communities where they operate. Spark Good Local Grants are awarded through an open application process to eligible organizations operating locally and directly benefiting the service area of the facility from when they are requesting funding.

Informational Webinar:

📅 Tuesday, January 27 | 1:00 PM CST

🎤 Learn how it works, how to get students involved, and how to use ready-to-use resources

Your students have big, bold ideas that deserve a million-dollar stage!

The #MottMillion Dollar Challenge is the ultimate national pitch competition for kids and teens (K-12). Kids and teens dream up solutions, tackle real-world problems and present ideas that improve their very own schools, homes and communities.

All it takes is a simple 30-90 second video. No fancy editing. No special tools. Just their creativity, clarity and courage. Students can enter solo or in teams of up to three, and entries are due by February 27, 2026. 

Looking for an easy way to bring engaging, hands-on STEM learning to your afterschool program? Afterschool educators can now access free STEM Learning Journeys designed specifically for out-of-school-time settings—plus an opportunity to earn a stipend of up to $1,500.

Developed by STEM Next in partnership with Verizon™, these bundles of lessons and activities help afterschool educators engage youth in hands-on STEM learning with topics including AI, sustainability, space, and engineering.

Programs that complete the Nature & Sustainability Learning Journey can qualify for a stipend based on youth participation.