Introduction
In the world of playgrounds and outdoor fitness facilities, there’s a lot more to consider than just swings, slides, and monkey bars. Behind the scenes, playground developers like ParkVision work tirelessly to secure funding to bring these recreational spaces to life. There are a lot of grant opportunities when it comes to parks and recreation that are put in place to help benefit the community.
However, the landscape is not always as transparent as it should be. Some playground equipment designers misuse the term ‘grant,’ creating confusion in the marketplace. They present their products as if they come with grants when, in reality, they merely offer discounts.
In this blog post, we will discuss a problem. We will also explain how ParkVision commits to providing access to real playground funding opportunities. These opportunities are available at both state and national levels.
The Misuse of the Term ‘Grant’
Playground developers use the term ‘grant’ to attract customers. They want to show that they can secure a significant amount of funding for their projects. This word attracts potential clients by highlighting the financial benefits they can receive for their projects.
This practice can be misleading and is, unfortunately, not uncommon in the industry. Companies may give discounts on equipment and call them grants, giving the false impression of financial support.
At ParkVision, we believe in transparency and honesty. We understand the importance of accurate information in securing funding for playgrounds and outdoor fitness centers. Misrepresenting discounts as grants not only confuses clients but also undermines the credibility of the entire industry. We commit to setting the record straight and ensuring that our clients have access to legitimate funding options.
The ParkVision Difference
ParkVision stands apart from those who misuse the term ‘grant.’ We are dedicated to providing our clients with real opportunities to secure playground funding.
We know that creating playgrounds and outdoor fitness areas can cost a lot for communities, schools, and organizations. So, we are gathering resources and forming partnerships to make it easier and clearer to get funding. We want to help you gather the funding required to create playgrounds and outdoor fitness centers that benefit the community at large.
National Playground Grants
The federal level provides these grants and they can offer substantial financial support for playground projects. National grants for playgrounds improve community infrastructure, promote physical activity, and enhance well-being of children and families.
Government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private foundations may offer grants for playgrounds and outdoor fitness centers. They can cover a wide range of expenses, from equipment purchase and installation to safety enhancements and accessibility improvements. Communities can receive funds for creating enjoyable and secure play spaces by exploring national grants for playgrounds.
State Playground Grants
In addition to national grants, many states offer their own funding opportunities for playground development. State playground grants help communities customize projects to meet their specific needs and priorities. State government agencies, local municipalities, or nonprofit organizations with a focus on community development may administer these grants.
State grants for playgrounds can be an excellent source of funding for those looking to enhance outdoor spaces in their area. They may support initiatives such as inclusive play, nature-based play environments, or fitness-focused installations. State playground grants have different availability and eligibility criteria. Research and find the options that match your project goals.
KOMPAN’s Playground Funding Guide
One invaluable resource that ParkVision offers to its clients is KOMPAN’s Playground Funding Guide. This guide, available for download on our website, is a treasure trove of information regarding national and local funding opportunities that clients may not be familiar with. We suggest clients and partners learn about the different funding options in their areas.
“Start here to secure additional funding for your playground.
1. Get the Right Experts on Your Side.
We recommend getting your local KOMPAN playground consultant involved in the process as early as possible. We have extensive knowledge of the grant application process and can often guide you in the right direction in a timely manner. We can assist you with the fundamentals of the application, like project visualization and cost breakdown. Finally consider involving the true play experts, the children, to hear what they’d like to see in their play space.
2. Bring in Project Collaborators.
We highly recommend having a team around you for support during the application process. If you are applying for a playground grant for schools, getting your parent-teacher organization involved as the core team can be beneficial. We’ve learned from experience that nonprofit organizations are more likely to secure funding. Therefore, it’s a good idea to have them along for the application process.
3. Decide on Budget & Design
The design of your project can have a major impact on your budget. Your consultant can help you set realistic expectations that still deliver the WOW factor you’re envisioning with the playground of your dreams. Many grants would like to see the playground project design and breakdown of costs. We’re here to help you with both.
4. Start Networking
Networking is a great way to form relationships that can lend to business opportunities, and it certainly applies to the playground grant process. More stakeholders than you know can help fund your project, especially within your local community. Get in touch with local business associations or families and parent groups in the area, as they can all participate in the grant process.
5. Complete Applications
You’ve decided your budget and have all the details in place. Now, your playground project is ready to be presented to the stakeholders for the final sign-off. Once approved, you can start applying for grants. Make sure to go for multiple kinds of funds, as both the size and requirements of the grants will vary.
6. Get Your Grant Money!
Don’t be discouraged if every application isn’t accepted! Applying multiple times for grants is not uncommon, so remember all good things come to those who wait! You’ve done the research and the work, so a playground grant should be on its way, and soon after, the playground of your dreams!”
Conclusion
Securing funding is important to create playgrounds and outdoor fitness areas. Some people who make playground equipment have made it hard to get money by using the word ‘grant’ wrong.
ParkVision dedicates itself to clarity and transparency in the funding process. We offer useful resources to help clients secure playground grants from national and state sources.
One of these resources is KOMPAN’s Playground Funding Guide. It provides guidance and assistance in successfully obtaining the grants.
We don’t just offer good playground equipment; we also give advice, help, and access to funding options. We think all communities, schools, and groups should be able to make safe and fun outdoor areas for kids and families. By collaborating and being open, we can create a better future with fun and engaging play for everyone.
At ParkVision, we help you find playground grants and funding options. We are here to support you throughout your journey. We can make playground dreams come true, by creating fun and inclusive play areas that make people’s lives better.
Remember, the path to successful playground funding begins with knowledge, dedication, and a commitment to truth and transparency. Let’s build a brighter future, one playground at a time.