The Spark Prize is a $200,000 award for individuals with outstanding vision, commitment, and promise to improve health and well-being in Missouri. Now in its inaugural year, the prize was created by Missouri Foundation for Health to foster and amplify exceptional people throughout the state who are tackling social challenges that impact health and developing innovative solutions to help communities thrive. The award is an investment in future impact, giving recipients the freedom to use the funding in whatever ways best supports them. Five awardees were selected through a rigorous nomination and review process in year one.

View the full Spark Prize digital press kit.

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Learn more about the 2025 awardees.

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Awardees are high-potential changemakers in Missouri who are already making a difference – and who have the passion, insight, and leadership to do even more. They come from diverse backgrounds, regions, and sectors, and all share a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of Missourians. Awardees are selected for their potential to create long-term, transformative impact in Missouri.

The Spark Prize will return in 2026. Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to get involved.

A diverse committee of community leaders and experts review submissions and select a group of finalists who are invited to participate in a series of in-person interviews and collaborative exercises. From this group, Spark Prize awardees are chosen based on their leadership potential, creativity, and ability to create lasting change.

The Spark Prize selection process is designed to identify bold, high-potential leaders who are ready to take their work to the next level. Candidates are nominated by people who recognize their vision and impact in communities across Missouri. From there, nominees submit a short application that highlights their ideas, leadership, and commitment to improving health and well-being.