Curiosity Pass: A Cultural Education Program (Mid-Cycle)

Overview

Curiosity Pass funds cultural partners with youth-serving programs to create engaging arts, cultural, and science educational experiences for King County K-12 public school students. Programs can be in-school activities (residencies, workshops, performances, lessons), before and after school programs, field trips, summer or break programs, and professional development. The grant supports new program creation, continuation, or expansion of existing programs.

Key Dates

• Intent to Apply: Thursday, May 28, 2026, 5:00 pm PST (draft application deadline for eligibility pre-screening)
• Final Application: Thursday, June 11, 2026, 5:00 pm PST

Eligibility

Applicants must be cultural partners with youth-serving programs. Groups and individual educators can apply. Lead program staff must demonstrate at least 2 years of experience in youth education programs. Projects must serve one or more of King County's 19 public school districts or tribal schools.

Funding Focus

Applicants must select ONE of the following to frame their project: Create (new cultural education program addressing a cultural access need), or Grow (building upon existing education programs).

Review Criteria

Applications are reviewed competitively based on: Public benefit (prioritizing access for underserved schools and students); Student learning connection (culturally sustaining, student-centered, safe, enriching, interactive experiences with clear learning outcomes); Qualifications (demonstrated ability to work with K-12 students and partner with schools); Feasibility (realistic budget and fair compensation for cultural workers); and Advancing equity (benefiting historically marginalized communities, especially BIPOC communities, with inclusive leadership and decision-making).

Contact

Bryan Wilson, (206) 263-2655

Translations Available

• 中文 (Chinese)
• Русский (Russian)
• Soomaali (Somali)
• Español (Spanish)
• Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)