Investing in an LED scoreboard or video display can significantly enhance your sports facility’s experience for athletes, fans, and sponsors. However, purchasing, installing, and maintaining these advanced displays can be costly. Fortunately, multiple funding options are available, including grants, financing programs, sponsorships, and community fundraising efforts. This guide will help you navigate the process and identify the best funding sources for your project.
Use our LED scoreboard and video display cost calculator to get a tailored cost estimate for your project in minutes.
Why You Need to Estimate Total Project Costs Before Applying for Funding
Before pursuing funding options such as grants, sponsorships, or financing, it is essential to assess the full cost of your project. A detailed estimate strengthens funding applications and ensures you request an appropriate amount. Costs can vary depending on factors such as scoreboard size, resolution, brightness, and additional features like wireless control or integration with other systems.
Installation expenses, including structural modifications, electrical work, and labor, can significantly impact the overall cost, particularly for larger video boards requiring reinforced support structures. Additional considerations include software licensing fees for advanced control systems and long-term expenses related to maintenance, LED module replacements, and power consumption. Accurately breaking down these costs helps communicate funding needs effectively, improving the chances of securing grants or sponsorships.
Use our LED scoreboard cost calculator to get a tailored cost estimate for your project in a matter of minutes.
Grant Opportunities for LED Scoreboards & Video Displays
Grants are among the most sought-after funding sources, especially for schools, municipal sports facilities, and nonprofit organizations.
Types of Grants Available
Local, state, and federal funding programs for school athletic programs, community recreation projects, and facility improvements. Here are a few examples:
- Urban Parks and Recreation Recovery program
- Land and Water Conservation Fund
- EPA Brown / Greenfield Program
- USDA – Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program
- USDA – The Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Grants
- HUD – Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG State)
- NPS – Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program
- NRPA – The National Recreation and Park Association Grants
Alternative Financing Options for Scoreboards & Displays
If grants are not an option or additional funding is needed, financing options such as leasing, low-interest loans, and municipal bonds can help cover costs.
Leasing vs. Buying: Pros & Cons
- Leasing: Lower upfront costs and predictable monthly payments make this attractive for organizations with limited budgets.
- Buying: Higher initial investment but long-term savings on interest payments and lease fees.
Low-Interest Loans & Municipal Bonds
- Loans: Many banks and credit unions offer low-interest loans for facility upgrades, particularly for schools and municipalities.
- Municipal Bonds: Tax-exempt bonds provide another option for public institutions seeking to fund scoreboard and video display projects.
Sponsorship & Advertising Revenue Opportunities
Sponsorships are an excellent way to offset the cost of an LED scoreboard or video display while generating recurring revenue for your facility.
How Sponsorships Can Help Fund Your Scoreboard
Many LED displays have integrated advertising features, allowing businesses to promote their brand during events. Naming rights can also be offered to sponsors, granting exclusive branding opportunities. Revenue-sharing agreements with advertisers, local businesses, or media companies create long-term funding streams.
To attract sponsors, develop a proposal that outlines visibility, audience demographics, and potential return on investment. Demonstrate the exposure sponsors will receive during events and the benefits of long-term partnerships.
Crowdfunding & Community Fundraising Strategies
Community engagement can be a powerful way to fund projects while building local support.
Effective Fundraising Strategies
Online crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and Booster help raise funds from individuals and businesses. Organizing community events, such as charity tournaments, raffles, and silent auctions, can generate significant contributions. Partnering with booster clubs, alumni networks, and local organizations further increases fundraising potential.
Promoting your campaign through social media, local press, and direct outreach can maximize donations and ensure broader community participation.
Choosing the Best Funding Option
Selecting the right funding strategy depends on your organization type, project scope, and financial resources.
Actionable Next Steps
- Estimate Your Costs – Use an LED scoreboard cost calculator or get quotes from suppliers.
- Research Funding Sources – Look for grants, financing programs, and sponsorship opportunities that fit your needs.
- Build a Funding Plan – Combine grants, sponsorships, and financing for a diversified approach.
- Prepare Applications & Proposals – Gather necessary documents, write compelling applications, and meet submission deadlines.
- Engage Your Community – Spread awareness through fundraising campaigns, sponsor outreach, and social media efforts.
Conclusion
Securing funding for an LED scoreboard or video display project requires careful planning, cost estimation, and exploring multiple funding sources. Whether pursuing grants, sponsorships, financing, or crowdfunding, a well-structured funding strategy increases the chances of success. Research your options, develop a plan, and take the next step toward upgrading your sports facility with a high-quality digital scoreboard or video display.
