In Your Sports Mom Era: Fundraising Ideas for Sports Teams
If you’ve ever chased down a cash envelope, forgotten to collect a check, or ended up with a garage full of cookie dough you swore you wouldn’t buy again… welcome, friend. You’re in your Sports Mom Era - where fundraising meets carpool chaos and everyone’s just trying to keep the team afloat.
Luckily, there are lots of ways to dig in to fundraising, that don't involve door-to-door sales. Spoiler: We're spilling the scoop on a new-ish app called Jamboree - it's a fundraising app that finally gets, well, fundraising.
Dig in below for tons of fundraising ideas for sports teams (and scouts and schools!) that you'll want to know.
1. The Digital Game-Changer: Jamboree
Say goodbye to paper forms and product sales. Jamboree reimagines fundraising for youth sports teams with one simple, totally digital platform. Through their app, families can easily share their team’s donation page with friends, family, and community members across social media or text - no products, no door-knocking, no awkward asks.
Each $20 donation plants a real tree in an area of need, and your team keeps 70% of every sale. It’s a fundraiser that gives back twice - to the athletes and to the planet.
It’s fundraising made fast, transparent, and actually fun - a total win for busy parents, coaches, and players alike.
Why we love it:
No inventory, no delivery, no mess
Start your fundraiser in the app - no hidden fees, no spreadsheets
Invite the whole team (or fundraise solo, go you!)
Translates into real-world impact
Currently available for sports teams and schools
Learn more about Jamboree at their website.
2. Host a “Field Day” Fundraiser
Take advantage of your local park or community center and plan a field day filled with friendly competition - think obstacle course, three-legged races, or a mini “fun run.” Charge a small entry fee and offer prizes donated by local businesses. It’s a great way to raise money and build community spirit.
Pro tip: Have a concession stand run by the team or sell custom swag for extra funds.
3. Dine + Donate: The Local Restaurant Night
This is such a classic but we love it: Many restaurants - like Chipotle or Chick-fil-A - offer “give-back nights” where a percentage of sales goes toward your team’s fundraising goals. If you don't have these near you, ask for suggestions in your local community Facebook group - there are lots of other local restaurants that offer these too.
Pro tip: Encourage team members and family to spread the word on social media for maximum turnout.
4. The Ultimate Team Garage Sale
Round up donations from players, family members, and neighbors for a team-wide yard sale. Set up shop in a local parking lot or community center and use proceeds to fund travel expenses or new equipment. Add a bake sale table or raffle tickets for gift cards to boost total sales.
Pro tip if you're savvy: Setup an online store for others to shop from if they can't make the live event.
WHILE WE HAVE YOU, ANOTHER GREAT READ:
More Fundraising Ideas for Sports Teams:
5. Fitness for Funds: Family Workout Event
Partner with a local gym or fitness instructor for a community class - yoga, Zumba, even a family-friendly bootcamp. Charge a small registration fee and encourage participants to come decked out in team colors. It’s an effective way to get the community moving while raising much-needed funds for your sports club.
6. Trivia or Game Night
Host a trivia night at your community center or favorite local event space. Sell tickets in advance and offer small prizes for the winning teams. Parents can join forces (and maybe show off their ‘90s pop culture knowledge), while concession sales or raffle tickets add extra funds.
Extra credit idea: If those don't sound fun, a sports team near us recently hosted a video game tournament and had a great turnout!
7. Online Raffles or Auctions
Skip the clipboard and go digital. Host a live auction or online raffle using social media platforms to feature items from local businesses or family sponsors — think gift cards, sports merchandise, or event tickets. It’s an excellent way to reach supporters beyond your immediate circle while keeping things simple and fun.
