
September 24th, 2015
You've come to a crossroads. You're the president of the PTA, the leader of the HOA, the director of a new daycare, or the head of a non-profit organization. You have a dream: to build a safe, exciting, and enriching playground for the children in your care or community. The vision is clear, but the funding isn't. At Noah's Park & Playgrounds, we understand how challenging it can be to find the financial resources needed for a large scale playground project. Whether you're creating a recreational park, school playground, or faith based play space, fundraising is a crucial step, and often the biggest hurdle. So you're asking yourself.... Where do I start? How do I find the right type of grant opportunities for my specific project?
Noah's Has Done the Research for You
We want everyone to have the opportunity to create their dream playground project a reality, and we understand that not everyone has the budget to do so. To make the process easier, we've created a comprehensive list of national and regional playground grant opportunities ranging from $1,000 to $750,000. Whether your project is small or large, public or private, we can help you find a funding solution that fits.
Visit our Playground Grant Opportunities page to explore dozens of up to date options and get started on your journey.
Types of Playground Grants Available
Here are some common types of grants included in our list:
- Federal Grants: Programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund provide significant funding for public recreation spaces.
- State & Local Grants: Many states and municipalities offer grants to schools, parks, and nonprofits looking to improve community spaces.
- Private Foundations: Organizations like The Tony Hawk Foundation, KaBOOM!, and The Dr. Pepper Snapple Group offer grants for building inclusive and safe play spaces.
- Corporate Giving Programs: Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Lowe's provide annual community improvement grants that can apply to playground equipment and site preparation.
- Health & Wellness Initiatives: Some healthcare organizations fund playgrounds that promote active lifestyles and childhood fitness.
Tips for Submitting a Winning Playground Grant Application
Once you've identified a few grant opportunities, it's time to focus on your application. Here are some tips to help you stand out:
- Start Early: Grant deadlines sneak up quickly. Give yourself plenty of time to gather information and complete the application.
- Build a Team: Recruit help from teachers, community leaders, parents, or board members to contribute to the proposal.
- Know Your Numbers: Prepare a basic budget including equipment costs, installation, surfacing, and site work.
- Tell Your Story: Paint a picture of who will benefit from the playground and how it will impact your community.
- Provide Visuals: Noah's Park & Playgrounds can provide design renderings or quotes to strengthen your application.
Ways to Strengthen Your Playground Grant Application
While finding a grant is a critical step, the strength of your application can make or break your chances of receiving funding. That's why it's important to take the time to put together a compelling proposal that clearly communicates the impact your playground project will have on your community. Here are a few tips to help you submit a strong application:
1. Start with a clear vision
Describe the purpose of your project in detail. Include the age range of the children who will use the playground, the needs of the community, and how the space will promote physical activity, inclusion, and wellness.
2. Provide data
Back up your proposal with real statistics. Highlight demographics, health needs, or accessibility challenges your playground will address. Numbers and measurable outcomes can strengthen your case.
3. Show community support
Include letters from local leaders, parents, educators, or other organizations who support your project. Demonstrating broad interest and need will show funders that your playground will be well used and maintained.
4. Create a realistic budget
List your expected costs, including equipment, surfacing, installation, and site preparation. If you've already secured some funding or donations, be sure to include that information.
5. Include visuals
Renderings or layout plans from Noah's Park & Playgrounds can help your grant reviewers visualize the end result. Ask our team for help with customized designs that fit your goals and budget.
Applying for a grant can seem overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Contact Noah's Park & Playgrounds for expert advice on planning, budgeting, and preparing your application.
Don't Forget Fundraising Alternatives
Not all funding comes through grants, and that's okay! Here are a few other ideas that have worked for our customers:
- Online Crowdfunding: Platforms like GoFundMe or Donorbox can reach hundreds of people quickly.
- Sponsorship Programs: Invite local businesses to sponsor playground components in exchange for name recognition or signage.
- Adopt A Playground Campaigns: Offer community members the chance to "adopt" a bench, swing, or climbing structure with their name engraved.
- Community Events: Organize fun runs, bake sales, car washes, or auction nights to raise both funds and awareness.
- Matching Gift Programs: Ask local employers or organizations if they'll match donations made by their employees.
Why Partner with Noah's for Grant Funded Projects?
We aren't just equipment suppliers, we're your partners in bringing play to life. Here's how we support grant applicants:
- Free Quotes and Design Renderings: Essential for most applications.
- Quick Response Times: We know deadlines are tight, and we act fast.
- Inclusive, ADA Compliant Equipment: Boost your eligibility with accessible options.
- Experience with Funded Projects: We've helped dozens of organizations just like yours.
- Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff: We're ready to help you answer your questions every step of the way.
Let's Build Something Together
Creating a playground isn't just about equipment, it's about building a space where children learn, grow, and make lifelong memories. Whether you're starting from scratch or improving an existing site, Noah's Park & Playgrounds is here to help.
Visit our Playground Grant Opportunities page to start exploring funding options!
Need some help from our team before you work on your applications? Contact us here: