How to Get a Grant for a Playground

A playground can transform a community into a haven of fun and activity for kids. For schools, churches and nonprofits with limited budgets, building a playground can feel like a dream. Securing a grant may be your ticket to turning this vision into reality. The process may seem daunting, but with a few tips and tricks, grant applications can be child’s play.

This helpful guide uncovers the what, where and how of grants for parks and playgrounds. Explore grant types, funding sources and how to write a winning proposal.

What Are Playground Grants?

Government agencies, foundations or nonprofits offer financial grants to build community playgrounds. Funding helps schools, churches, nonprofits and other organizations that may lack the necessary budget. Grant providers recognize the benefits of playgrounds for children and communities. Unlike traditional funding, grant funds have no payback expectation.

Types of Playground Equipment Grants

Different institutions can benefit from grant opportunities, including:

• Playground school grant funding: Some foundations offer school-specific or daycare playground equipment grants. States also have programs for educational institutions. For example, you can check grants provided by the Department of Education.
• Inclusive playground grants: Accessible playgrounds let kids of all mental, physical and learning abilities play together. Many grant organizations support inclusivity. Proposals may get greater buy-in if the stakeholders understand the importance of inclusive play.
• Playground grants for churches: Churches and other places of worship can apply for funding through federal or state programs. The Children’s Bureau provides grants to faith-based and community organizations.
• Playground equipment grants for nonprofit organizations: Nonprofits rely on financial support. Grants, like those from the Children’s Bureau, offer these organizations a lifeline for building playgrounds.

Where to Find Playground Grant Partners

Many institutions, ranging from government to private, fund child and community development. Here are some sources of playground grants you can tap into:

• Government: Local, state and federal agencies earmark funds for specific projects like playgrounds.
• Foundations: Look into family or community foundations and service clubs that support initiatives for children.
• Businesses: Local companies and larger brand-name corporations often invest in community improvement. Reach out to businesses in your area to find out if they offer grants or research larger institutions with funding programs.
• Individuals: Philanthropists who are passionate about enhancing their communities can be incredible allies. They may seek out projects that promote the well-being of children and families.

Start by searching for programs or agencies in your city and state. National grants can be competitive, so stick with local resources for a better chance of success.

How to Prepare for Playground Grant Applications

Here’s how to go about preparing for a grant application:

Assess Your Playground Needs

Before approaching a grant organization, you must have a defined project scope. Providers are more likely to approve applications with a well-considered plan. Some practical techniques include:

• Conducting surveys: Gather feedback from parents, teachers, children and community members. Their insights can strengthen your proposal while illustrating support.
• Checking existing facilities: Upgrading a playground is more affordable than building a new one from the ground up. Assess the current setup to understand the renovation needs.
• Understanding demographics: Research the age groups and abilities the playground will serve. This information will form part of the grant proposal.

Research Funding Opportunities

Now, it’s time to find the right grant organization. Search for funding on sites like Grants.gov, the Candid Foundation Directory or GrantWatch. Community development or parks and recreation programs also offer grants. Check your city or county’s website for information on these programs. Look into nonprofit foundations focused on childhood education, health or community growth.

Networking is also a valuable tool. Local schools, churches or nonprofits may have information on programs in your area.

Assemble a Grant Proposal Super Team

Creating a team of passionate people to support your cause can give you an advantage. Gather skilled individuals, such as project managers, financial experts or community advocates. Ensure clear communication and assign roles based on strengths. Brainstorm ideas to develop a compelling, united proposal that showcases your vision.

The Grant Application Process

Here’s a play-by-play of how the grant application process works:

• Step 1: A relevant institution identifies the need for a funding program. They develop a grant initiative that aligns with a specific mission. Organizations wishing to receive funding must meet certain criteria outlined by the grant.
• Step 2: Groups that want to access funding must complete and submit an application. These proposals may include everything from basic organizational information to detailed project plans. Grant applications can take weeks to months to complete.
• Step 3: An independent panel of experts reviews your application and determines how to allocate the funds. Once approved, you receive the funding needed to kick off your playground project.

What to Include in Your Grant Request

Playground grants may have different requirements, but most proposals include the following sections:

1. Executive Summary

The summary gives a snapshot of your proposal. Use this section to outline the problem and present your innovative solution. Make a compelling case for why your project deserves funding. Keep it concise and well-organized. Remember, this is the highlight reel — you can dive deeper into the details later in your application.

2. Introduction

Start by introducing your organization and sharing your exciting playground project. Paint a picture of the kids in the community, emphasizing who the playground will benefit.

3. Statement of Need

In this section, expand on what makes this project so important. Use statistics, data and relevant reports to illustrate the issue. The statement showcases the problem’s urgency and describes how your playground will make an impact.

4. Project Description and Plan of Work

Present your detailed action plan and timeline for bringing your vision to life. Include proposed location details, playground designs, contractor information and team member roles. The more thorough you are, the better.

5. Budget

Grantors want to know you have an accurate picture of the funds you need. Provide a detailed breakdown of your playground budget, accounting for how you plan to spend every dollar. You build trust with the grantors by showing where the grant money will go.

6. Organizational Information and Qualifications

Here’s where you show off your team’s expertise. Share details about each member and their role in the project. Emphasize the skills of your experienced contractors. Their involvement lends credibility to your project, assuring grantors that you have the right team in place.

7. Conclusion

Use this final opportunity to make a lasting impression. Recap the key points of your application. Summarize the problem, solution and the positive impact your project will have on the community. Remember to thank the grantors for considering your application.

8. Appendix

End the proposal with a list of sources you referenced in the proposal. Feel free to add infographics or online resources that support your case to strengthen the application.

Tips for Writing a Winning Grant Proposal

Follow these four tips for a grant-worthy proposal:

1. Understand the requirements: Familiarize yourself with the grant’s specific objectives. Read the instructions and criteria a few times to know what to expect.
2. Tailor the application: Adjust your proposal to the specific grant. If the grantor prioritizes healthier kids, show how your project will achieve this. Prove that your vision aligns with theirs.
3. Write like a winner: Write your proposal as if you already have the money and explain what you plan to do with it. You might include a drawing of the playground’s design or equipment you plan to invest in. Keep your writing clear and concise. Consider partnering with a professional grant writer for extra polish.
4. Review and proofread: Run through the proposal to ensure it meets all requirements. It helps to give the application to someone unconnected to the project for an extra set of eyes.

Discover a Different Way to Finance a Playground With Playworx

A grant can help your school, church or nonprofit bring the joy of active play to your community. Playworx offers an alternative to grants with affordable playground financing options. Your organization may qualify for tax-exempt financing. As a Little Tikes playground distributor, we support the Dough Builders fundraising initiative.

Playworx has brought fun to communities with playground equipment for over two decades. Contact us today to request a free estimate or discuss your financing needs. Together, we can turn your playground dreams into reality!