Your Guide to Grants for Playground Equipment

Creating, renovating, and maintaining a playground requires financial resources, and numerous organizations nationwide provide funds for playground projects through grants. These grants, which do not require repayment and are not manufacturer-specific or product-specific, essentially offer free money to help boost or kickstart your playground budget. This can be especially useful when trying to make playground improvements on a tight budget.

Typically, government agencies, foundations, non-profit organizations, or corporations provide playground grants. These entities recognize the invaluable benefits that playgrounds bring to communities, including their role in promoting the healthy development of children. Furthermore, some businesses actively support the revitalization of their communities, motivating them to earmark funds specifically for playground projects. For instance, they might focus on playgrounds in economically disadvantaged areas, inclusive playgrounds, those designed for special needs, natural playgrounds, or playgrounds in dire need of updates.

To assist you in finding the right grant opportunities for your project, Landscape Structures has compiled an online grant resource guide. This guide includes information from national, state, and regional organizations that offer grant funding for playground projects in both public and private settings, helping you connect with the best funding sources for your specific needs.

Numerous grant programs exist, catering to diverse needs such as grants for playground equipment. Both federal and state programs, along with corporate entities like Lowe’s, Aetna Foundation, Hasbro, and Wal-Mart, provide funding.

To help you navigate this landscape, Landscape Structures offers a comprehensive Grant Guide. This guide, organized into various sections, compiles both federal and state programs alongside corporate grants.

Firstly, it begins by listing national grant funding organizations. Additionally, it encompasses organizations that offer grants irrespective of geographic location. Moreover, the guide features geographic-specific grant funding organizations, specifically designed for nonprofits serving particular areas. Lastly, it highlights a selection of international grant opportunities, giving you a global perspective on potential funding sources.

To some, writing a playground grant sounds like an overwhelming task. However, with proper planning and the right tools, you can effectively secure funds for your new community or school playground. Therefore, use the following 10 tips to help ensure success in your playground grant writing process:

1. Understand the purpose of the grant and write the grant requirements
2. Establish goals and activities that are clear
3. Outline your proposal before you begin writing
4. Write clearly, concisely and professionally
5. Write as if you have already been funded for the grant and are explaining what you will be doing
6. Make sure the proposal answers each question asked
7. Be sure to consult with required stakeholders and get appropriate approvals to submit the grant early in the process
8. The appearance of your proposal matters; use visuals when possible
9. Read and edit your proposal in its entirety
10. Have someone not familiar with your program read the proposal for clarity

Landscape Structures has compiled an online grant resource guide from national, state, and regional organizations that offer grant funding for commercial entities.

“Grants” are often used by some playground manufacturers to attract potential projects and lure clients into making quick purchases without fully considering critical factors like quality, longevity, personalized design, and play value.

However, these deceptive marketing tactics are not true grants; rather, they are inflated, limited-choice package designs that are then discounted back to their actual price. Therefore, we recommend asking us for a comparable structure design and a cost comparison to these so-called “grant” designs. You will get better equipment with higher play value and longer return on investment—without any deceptive tricks.
In contrast, a true grant should benefit those receiving it, not merely serve as a monetary gain for those offering the so-called “grant.”

Real Grant Funds are Available. Contact us for more information.

Determining the legitimacy of playground grants is crucial to ensure that you are not falling victim to a scam or a fraudulent scheme. Here are some steps you can take to verify the legitimacy of playground grants:

• Research the Grant Provider: Start by researching the agency offering the grant. Look for their official website and contact information. Legitimate grant providers typically have a well-established presence.
• Check for Accreditation: Many legitimate grant providers are accredited by relevant government agencies or industry associations. Check if the grant provider is recognized by a trusted authority.
• Review Grant Guidelines: Read the grant guidelines carefully. Legitimate grants have clear eligibility criteria, application procedures, and expectations. 
• Contact the Grant Provider: Reach out to the grant provider through the contact information listed on their official website. Ask questions about the grant program, application process, and any concerns you may have. 
• Verify Funding Sources: Check where the grant funding comes from. Some grants are funded by government agencies, foundations, or reputable corporations. Verify that the funding sources are legitimate entities.
• Beware of Fees: Legitimate grant programs typically do not require applicants to pay a fee to apply. 
• Search for Reviews and Feedback: Look for reviews or feedback from organizations or individuals who have previously received grants from the same provider. 
• Check for Red Flags: Be alert to common red flags of grant scams, such as unsolicited grant offers via email or phone, requests for personal or financial information, and promises of guaranteed grants.
• Consult with Experts: If you have doubts about the legitimacy of a grant, consider seeking advice from experts in grant writing or nonprofit organizations. 
• Trust Your Instincts: If something about the grant seems suspicious or too good to be true, trust your instincts and exercise caution. Remember that due diligence is essential when pursuing grants. Legitimate grant providers are interested in supporting worthwhile projects and organizations, and they typically have a transparent and professional application process. 

Landscape Structures has compiled an online grant resource guide from national, state, and regional organizations that offer grant funding for commercial entities. Contact Us for more information