Discover time-saving fundraising opportunities that work with your team’s schedule—not against it.
The Pressure is Real—and So Are the Solutions
Managing a youth sports team isn’t just about running practices and winning games. It’s also about securing the funds needed to make the season possible. Uniforms, travel, equipment, tournament fees—they all add up.
If you’re like most coaches or team managers, you’re probably asking:
How do we raise the money we need—without adding more to our already full plates?
That’s exactly what this article is here to solve.
At Fundraising.com, we’ve helped tens of thousands of teams raise millions of dollars over the last 25 years. Our goal is simple: give you access to fundraising opportunities that are fast, profitable, and easy to implement, so you can stay focused on the field.
1. Start the Season with Simplified Group Ordering
One of the most reliable ways for sports teams to raise funds is through catalog-style group ordering. This approach allows teams to collect orders using product flyers or online tools, submit a single tally sheet, and receive a bulk delivery arranged around your team’s schedule.
Why it works:
- Ideal for managing large group sales with fewer moving parts
- Flexible delivery based on your season timeline
- Offers popular fundraising items like Katydids Chocolates and Sweet CHAOS Popcorn
At Fundraising.com, we make this process easy to coordinate, with expert support and dependable shipping.
2. Product Fundraisers That Practically Sell Themselves
Looking for something more hands-on—but still low-maintenance? Product fundraising remains a top pick for sports teams because it’s flexible, effective, and team-friendly.
Here are some all-star options that teams across the country use year-round:
Top Fundraising Products for Sports Teams
- Tessa Lollipops – Fun, colorful, and easy to sell at concession stands
- $1 & $2 Pretzel Rods – Portable, affordable snacks that are great for sideline sales
- Smencils – Scented school supplies perfect for athletes with younger siblings or school support
- Jack Link’s Jerky – High-protein fuel for players, fans, and parents alike
With Fundraising.com, you get a zero-upfront-cost product catalog, customized guidance, and fulfillment support—so you can focus on coaching, not logistics.
3. Text-to-Give Campaigns Built for Team Engagement
Need to raise money in a hurry? Launch a Text-to-Give campaign where supporters can donate from their phones in seconds.
This works especially well when paired with a live event like a game, pep rally, or banquet. We recommend platforms like Givebutter or integrating with our Fund Duel system, which gamifies team-based giving and makes it competitive—in the best way.
Use Text-to-Give to:
- Collect donations from extended family and fans
- Celebrate milestones (goals scored, games won)
- Encourage team-to-team challenges for internal motivation
We’ve seen teams raise thousands in just a weekend with this approach.
4. Community-Focused Restaurant Nights
Sometimes the best opportunities come from right down the street. Hosting a restaurant night allows your team to earn a percentage of all sales from a partner eatery.
Local chains like Chipotle, MOD Pizza, and Panera frequently offer these programs—but don’t overlook neighborhood diners, cafes, or family-owned favorites.
Best practices:
- Promote the event on social media and within your league
- Wear team gear for visibility and photos
- Bring banners or signs to display your team’s name
This approach builds local goodwill while earning real revenue—with no upfront cost.
5. Sponsor Banners and Team Apparel
If your team plays in a visible location—like a school gym, community field, or tournament venue—sponsorship banners are a prime opportunity.
Offer advertising space to local businesses in exchange for a donation. Sponsors get visibility, and your team gets the funding.
Expand your impact by also offering:
- Logo placement on practice gear or warm-ups
- Social media shoutouts and team website mentions
- Sponsor recognition at team banquets or media days
It’s a low-effort, high-value way to build relationships and boost your team’s budget.
6. Game Day Sales That Score Every Time
Don’t miss the chance to fundraise when fans are already gathered. Game days are perfect for concession stands, raffles, and flash sales.
Pair this with high-demand products like:
- Tessa Lollipops
- Katydids
- Sports apparel (custom tees, hoodies, water bottles)
- Tumblers or branded merch
With a few folding tables and a square reader, your team could be pulling in hundreds per game.
7. Team Challenges & Online Competitions
A little competition goes a long way—especially in sports. Use peer-to-peer fundraising models where each athlete or family member sets a personal fundraising goal and competes to raise the most.
We recommend:
- Digital Leaderboards to track real-time performance
- Prizes or team perks for top earners
- Themed challenges (ex: “Fuel the Road Trip” or “Gear Up Challenge”)
Platforms like Fund Duel or even a custom page from Fundraising.com can help automate this model with built-in incentives.
8. Fast Cash Events You Can Plan in a Weekend
Need money now? Here are a few one-day ideas that work:
- Car Washes – Still a classic and great for team bonding
- “Rent-an-Athlete” Days – Players volunteer for yard work, chores, or tutoring
- 50/50 Raffles – Combine with a concession stand or sports banquet
- Pop-Up Snack Sales – Outside school, practice, or after games
They’re easy to run, require minimal setup, and produce immediate cash flow.
9. Subscription-Based Fundraisers for Recurring Revenue
Think beyond one-time events. Set your team up for season-long success with recurring income.
Try:
- Monthly Treat Boxes – Custom snacks or cheer boxes delivered each month
- Digital Coupon Cards – Partner with local businesses to offer ongoing discounts
- Affiliate Shopping Links – Earn a percentage every time supporters shop online using your link
Recurring fundraising can stabilize your budget and reduce pressure to “start from scratch” each season.
Why Fundraising.com Is the Go-To Partner for Sports Teams
We’ve worked with teams across football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball, and more—and we know what makes a sports fundraiser successful.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- 25+ years experience in youth sports fundraising
- Product lines designed for active, mobile teams
- Dedicated reps who understand your season timeline
- Online stores, print catalogs, and hybrid options
- Up to 50% profit, with no upfront costs
Whether you need to raise $500 or $15,000, we’ll help you make it happen—fast, clean, and coach-approved.
“We raised enough money for our whole tournament schedule in under 2 weeks.”
— Marcus, Youth Basketball Coach, TX
“The kids loved it, the parents loved it, and we hit our gear goal in one sale.”
— Alicia, Soccer Team Manager, NY
Fundraising Shouldn’t Feel Like a Full-Time Job
You’ve got enough on your plate. With the right tools, your team can fundraise smarter—not harder.
At Fundraising.com, we’re here to make sure you spend less time chasing funds—and more time focusing on your athletes.
Take Action
Get your Free Sports Team Fundraising Guide today and discover quick, practical ways to meet your goals this season.
Visit: https://fundraising.com
Email: [email protected]
Call: 1.800.443.5353
Address: 11320 State Route 9 #701065, Champlain, NY, 12919