Every sports team, at one point or another, finds itself needing extra funds. Whether it’s for new uniforms, travel expenses for tournaments, or upgrading equipment, fundraising becomes essential. When I first got involved in organizing team events, I quickly realized that traditional bake sales and car washes weren’t always cutting it. So, I had to get creative.
Here’s a list of fundraising ideas that have been tried and tested. Some of these can rake in money fast, while others build long-term relationships with supporters. Let’s explore options that work for teams of all sizes!
1. Host a Sports Clinic
Your team’s expertise can be a powerful tool. Offer a sports clinic for younger athletes in your community.
- What you need: Coaches, team members, and a local field or gym.
- Who can attend: Kids, teens, or even adults looking to improve their skills.
- How it works: Charge a fee for participation (or suggest donations), and make it an interactive learning experience.
This was one of the most successful events I ran. Not only did it raise funds, but it also helped build our team’s reputation in the community.
2. Team Sponsorships from Local Businesses
This is a classic, but it works wonders. Local businesses are often eager to support youth and amateur sports teams in exchange for exposure.
- What you need: A sponsorship package that offers something in return, like logos on jerseys or banners at games.
- How it works: Approach local businesses with a proposal. Offer tiers of sponsorship, ranging from a small donation to a major sponsor who gets prime placement.
In one season, I secured a sponsor who paid for all our travel costs just by offering them a spot on our jerseys. It’s about knowing the value your team can give back to the business.
3. 50/50 Raffles at Games
This is one of the easiest ways to raise funds during home games or tournaments. It requires minimal planning and offers an instant prize.
- What you need: Tickets to sell and volunteers to walk around.
- How it works: Sell raffle tickets at the beginning of the event. Half the pot goes to the winner, and the other half goes to the team.
It’s a fun and exciting way to engage your crowd. Every time I’ve done this, people couldn’t wait to see who’d win the pot!
4. “Rent a Player” Day
Let your team members put in some work for donations! For one day, offer their services to the community.
- What you need: Willing players and a set of tasks people need help with (yard work, babysitting, dog walking).
- How it works: Community members or businesses “rent” a player for a few hours in exchange for a donation.
We ran this one season, and it was a hit. People loved the idea of having athletes help with tasks, and it was a fun bonding experience for the team as well.
5. Online Crowdfunding Campaign
Sometimes, the simplest method is the most effective. Platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, or RallyMe are designed to raise money for specific goals, such as purchasing new equipment or funding a trip.
- What you need: A well-crafted story and a clear financial goal.
- How it works: Share the campaign with friends, family, and on social media. Update supporters regularly to keep the momentum going.
When I set up our crowdfunding page, the key was really engaging our supporters—personal stories about the team made people more eager to donate.
6. Host a Team Auction
An auction event can be highly profitable and a lot of fun.
- What you need: Donated items from businesses or unique experiences (like private coaching sessions from players or signed gear).
- How it works: You can do this in person or online. Auction off donated goods or services, with all proceeds going to the team.
One year, we auctioned off a day of practice with the team and it was a huge draw! People loved the chance to be part of the action.
7. Organize a Charity Tournament
Why not host your own event and make it a fundraiser?
- What you need: A venue, teams to participate, and volunteers to help manage the event.
- How it works: Charge a registration fee for teams to enter. You can also raise additional funds through concessions and merchandise sales.
We hosted a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, and it not only raised money but brought the whole community together. It’s also great exposure for your team.
8. Custom Merchandise Sales
Get your team logo on t-shirts, hoodies, hats, or even water bottles and sell them to fans, friends, and family.
- What you need: A supplier that can produce merchandise quickly.
- How it works: Offer pre-orders to avoid overspending on inventory. Make sure the items are stylish enough that even non-players will want to buy them.
We found that having a catchy design really boosted sales, and people loved sporting our team’s gear around town.
9. “Eat to Support” Fundraisers
Many restaurants will partner with local organizations to host a fundraising night, where a portion of the evening’s sales go to your team.
- What you need: A local restaurant willing to participate.
- How it works: Promote the event and encourage supporters to eat at the restaurant on a specific night. A percentage of sales (often 10-20%) goes to your team.
This fundraiser has been easy to set up, and supporters love a good excuse to dine out while supporting the team.
10. Host a Fun Run or 5K
Combine community fitness with team fundraising by organizing a run. It doesn’t have to be a major event—just something fun and local.
- What you need: A safe route, volunteers, and registration process.
- How it works: Charge an entry fee, and offer prizes or medals for different age groups or categories.
One season, we hosted a family fun run and it ended up being one of our largest fundraisers. Plus, it was a great way to promote health in our community.
11. Partner with Corporate Matching Programs
Many companies offer matching gift programs, where they’ll match donations made by employees to a non-profit or team.
- What you need: A list of potential donors who work for companies that offer matching programs.
- How it works: After a supporter donates, ask them to check if their company has a matching gift program.
This method can double the donations from your supporters—one year, we got an extra $5,000 just from matching gifts!
Final Thoughts
Fundraising for a sports team doesn’t have to be stressful or monotonous. Get creative, involve your community, and don’t be afraid to try new ideas. From hosting a local clinic to securing corporate sponsorships, the key is to align the fundraiser with your team’s values and audience.
Mixing different methods can also keep things fresh and exciting. Keep in mind that engaging your supporters and showing appreciation can make all the difference.