The Spark!Lab National Network
In Spark!Lab, we believe everyone is inventive. Every day we provide opportunities for children and families to explore their inventive creativity--to create, innovate, collaborate and problem-solve. These experiences empower kids to develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed today and in the future.
The flagship Spark!Lab was opened by the Smithsonian's Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation at the National Museum of American History in 2008, and was a resounding success. After seeing the impact of Spark!Lab's approach to fostering inventive creativity in kids and families, other museums began to inquire about the possibility of having their own Spark!Lab. Thus, the idea for creating a thriving community of Spark!Labs came to life.
Seeking Applicants for Membership
Typically, Network members pay an initial, two-year licensing fee of $40,000, after which they pay regular two-year renewal fees of not more than $10,000. In January 2013, the Lemelson Center received a generous gift from the Ford Motor Company Fund, which willdefray the initial licensing fee of $40,000 for three Spark!Lab partners.
In light of this, we are currently seeking applications from organizations in the following areas interested in becoming part of the Spark!Lab National Network.
- Anchorage
- Atlanta
- Billings, MT
- Chicago
- Dallas
- Detroit
- Kansas City, MO
- Lexington
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Miami (southern Florida)
- Nashville
- Phoenix
- Puerto Rico
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- Seattle
Benefits of Spark!Lab National Network Membership
Network members benefit from many tangible and intangible products. This includes licensed use of Smithsonian, Lemelson Center and Spark!Lab names and logos; access to Smithsonian expertise through active consultation; facilitated relationships with other Network members; and customization of activities, if desired. Additionally, members receive the following:
- Spark!Lab activities developed by Smithsonian staff
- All start-up supplies, including shipping of materials
- Assistance with set-up and opening
- Ongoing workshops and training
Responsibilities of Membership
The Lemelson Center approaches all Network memberships as reciprocal relationships. As such, Network members will be responsible for the following:
- Quarterly reporting of Spark!Lab updates
- Liaising with Lemleson Center staff in a timely manner to gain approval of new activities
- Liaising with Lemelson Center staff on use of Smithsonian branding, logos and names, as well as general Spark!Lab promotion
- Responding to inquiries and requests from other Network members
For further information or to request an application, contact Michelle DelCarlo, Spark!Lab National Network Coordinator, at delcarlom@si.edu. Applications are due on August 19 and all applicants will be contacted by September 2.
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