One of the most frequent questions we hear about planning a new playground is, "how can I raise funds for a new school playground?" GameTime publishes a Playground Funding Guide with regional and national funding sources. It's available free of charge!

What if you need more funding, or want to involve the community in raising funds for your playground? We asked principals, PTO presidents, and school administrators for their best fundraising ideas. Here are the top ten!

Top 10 School Playground Fundraising Ideas

  1. Host a School Fair: Organize a fair with food stalls, game booths, and activities for kids. Charge a small admission fee and donate the proceeds to the playground fund.
  2. Launch a Crowdfunding Campaign: Set up a crowdfunding page and encourage parents, students, and community members to donate.
  3. Hold a Silent Auction: Ask local businesses to donate items or services, and hold a silent auction at the school or online. The proceeds can go to the playground fund.
  4. Plan a Fun Run or Walk-a-Thon: Encourage students to collect pledges from family and friends for every lap or mile completed. Participants can enjoy the exercise while raising money for the playground.
  5. Sell Customized Bricks: Sell engraved bricks with donors' names or messages that can be installed in the playground. It's a great way to engage the community and raise funds at the same time.
  6. Host a Bake Sale: Encourage parents and students to bake their favorite treats and sell them at school, with the proceeds going towards the playground fund.
  7. Sell Spirit Wear: Create and sell school-branded clothing and merchandise, such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats. The proceeds can help fund the playground.
  8. Organize a Community Yard Sale: Ask families in the school and local community to donate gently used items to sell at a yard sale. The proceeds can be donated to the playground fund.
  9. Host a Talent Show: Encourage students to showcase their talents and skills while charging a small admission fee for attendees. The proceeds can go to the playground fund.
  10. Create a Corporate Sponsorship Program: Reach out to local businesses to sponsor the playground in exchange for recognition and promotion through school events and media outlets.

Find the Funds You Need

From philanthropic foundations to generous parents, there is funding available to help you build the school playground of your dreams. To learn more, or to start the planning process, contact a GameTime playground expert in your neighborhood.