Get expert help applying to playground grants.
Hard Truths About Playground Grants
There's a common misconception that grants are "free" government money that's easy to get. But that's far from true! Here are a few factors you should consider before applying to a grant.
How much will I need to fundraise?
It depends! Most grants require you to have a portion of your playground already fundraised. Sometimes, this can be up to 50% of the project costs.
Do I need to pay for grant writing?
Yes! Typically, a professional grant writer will charge between $500 – $2,000 per application. Make sure that you’ve budgeted for these services.
My playground is built, what now?
Congratulations! Even though your project is done, many grants have mandatory reporting requirements. Ensure that you’re able to complete these.
Before applying to a grant, it's important to check that your project meets all of the eligibility requirements. Below, we've listed some of the most popular playground grants for you to review.
Enabling Accessibility Fund
The small projects component provides grant funding for small-scale construction and communication technology projects. This includes creating an accessible playground in your community.
Up to $125,000
Kal's RePlay Fund
Kal’s RePlay Fund provides grants for public infrastructure upgrades using recycled rubber products. Projects may include playground or spray park surfacing made from recycled rubber tires.
Up to $30,000
Sandbox Mutual Insurance
The Communities at Play program awards five lucky groups with $25,000 in funding for a brand-new or renovated playground. Eligible projects are based in Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba.
Up to $25,000
FCC AgriSpirit Fund
The FCC AgriSpirit Fund supports projects in communities of less than 150,000 people, or indigenous communities. Past projects have included purchasing an accessible playground structure.
Up to $25,000
Canada Post Community Foundation
The Canada Post Community Foundation funds schools and charities that help Canadian children and youth. Playground equipment is only eligible for a small project grant ($5,000 and under).
Up to $5,000
Community Gaming Grants
The Community Gaming Grants program distributes commercial gambling revenues to not-for-profit organizations. Grants may support community infrastructure projects, such as playgrounds.
Up to $250,000
Tire Stewardship BC
The TSBC Community Grant provides financial support to projects that use recycled rubber products made in BC. Projects include, but are not limited to, playgrounds, water parks, or fitness areas.
Up to $30,000
Northern Development Community Places
The Community Places program supports the creation, restoration or enhancement of community spaces, such as playgrounds. Eligible projects must be located in Central or Northern BC.
Up to $30,000
Central Okanagan Foundation
The Central Okanagan Foundation has a Project Grant, worth up to $15,000, that registered charities may apply for. Funding is available twice in a five year period for the same initiative/project.
Up to $15,000
Nanaimo Community Foundation
The Give Where You Live Fund offers grants for capital and pilot projects within the Regional District of Nanaimo. Applicants must secure at least 50% of project costs from other sources.
Up to $15,000
Community Facility Enhancement Program
CFEP provides financial assistance to upgrade, expand, purchase or build public-use community facilities, like playgrounds. Funding is only provided to projects on a matching basis, up to 50%.
Up to $125,000
Edmonton Community Foundation
ECF's Free to Play Grant is a new national initiative that strengthens opportunities for play in the Greater Edmonton Area. Playground equipment may be eligible if it is part of a broader project.
Up to $100,000
Alberta Blue Cross Built Together
The Built Together program helps Albertans build spaces for active living in their community. Eligible projects include playgrounds, skate parks, outdoor gyms, outdoor rinks, or cycling paths.
Up to $50,000
Alberta Recycling Management Authority
The Tire Recycling Community Grant provides funding to purchase recycled tire products for use in public projects. This includes pour-in-place rubber surfacing for playgrounds or spray parks.
Up to $30,000
School Playground Equipment Grant
The School Playground Equipment Grant provides up to $50,000 in matched funding for schools to build a new playground or update existing equipment. It is administered by the SPRA.
Up to $50,000
South Saskatchewan Community Foundation
The Non-Competitive Grant offers a streamlined pathway for eligible organizations to request funding. Projects may include capital campaigns, such as building a new playground.
Up to $20,000
Our Fundraising Services
From design to installation, our team can walk you through each step of the playground process. In addition, we're proud to be partnered with some of the most talented fundraising experts in the industry.
Apply to Work With Our Funding Experts
Our funding experts are busy helping other communities fundraise for their playground. In order to speed things up, tell us about your project and we'll match you to the best expert in your area.
”It has been so great to see people come to our events and donate and help. It restores your belief in community again when people offer aid.
Darcy LindbergProject Co-Chair, Muir Lake Community Playground