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7 Smart Ways to Increase Your Sport Club's Income

Published on by Rick from ClubMoov

Graphic showing sports people having fun and a euro on the background

Running a successful sport club takes passion, community effort, and, let's face it, enough money to keep things going.

Membership fees are usually the main income source, but relying only on them can hold your club back.

Finding other ways to bring in money isn't just smart; it's often necessary for growth.

Here are seven practical ways to boost your club's finances:

1. Get Membership Fees Collected Smoothly

Before searching for new income, make sure you're getting the membership fees you're already owed. Late or missed payments can really hurt your budget.

  • Make Paying Simple: Offer easy ways to pay online (like Paypal, open banking or card payments through ClubMoov). When it's easy to pay, people are more likely to do it on time.

  • Offer Payment Choices: Think about different payment plans (maybe monthly, quarterly, or yearly) if it's more convenient for some members. Upfront payments stay primary, but you do not exclude members.

  • Send Automatic Reminders: Use club management software to send out friendly, automatic reminders for payments. This saves you time and avoids awkward follow-ups in real life.

  • Track Payments Easily: Keep an eye on who has paid using an easy digital overview. This helps you spot and sort out any payment issues quickly.

2. Find Local Sponsors

Many local businesses like to support community groups. Sponsoring your club gives them visibility and shows they're involved locally.

  • Look for Good Matches: Think about local businesses related to sports, families, or your area (like shops, cafes, builders, or local services). Ask around – maybe members' families own businesses?

  • Offer Clear Packages: Keep sponsorship simple. Offer different levels (e.g., Bronze: logo on website; Silver: add a banner at games; Gold: add logo on team kit) with clear benefits for each price (€250, €500, €1000).

  • Show Them the Value: Explain how many people will see their name – mention member numbers, website visitors, or people at events. This helps them see the benefit of sports club sponsorship.

  • Build Connections: Talk to potential sponsors and keep track of your communications in a platform like ClubMoov. Aim for a partnership where both the business and the club benefit.

3. Run Fun Fundraising Events

Go beyond the usual raffle. Organise events that members and the community will enjoy, bringing people together and raising funds.

  • Host a Tournament: Charge teams an entry fee to play in a club tournament or friendly competition. Sell snacks and drinks to add extra income.

  • Organise Social & Community Events: Think about fun evenings like quiz nights, awards dinners, or even a larger benefit dinner (like a classic spaghetti evening!). A local community party hosted by the club can also be a great fundraiser and community builder.

  • Try Challenge Events: Get members involved in sponsored walks, bike rides, swim-a-thons, or even a 24-hour sport challenge. These are great club fundraising ideas.

  • Hold an Auction: During a social event, try an auction. Ask local businesses or members to donate items or services (like vouchers, lessons, or signed gear).

Graphic showing sports people having fun and a euro on the background

4. Sell Club Merchandise

Branded gear helps build team spirit and club pride. It's also a good source of extra income.

  • Start with the Basics: Focus on popular items people want, like T-shirts, hoodies, hats, scarves, or even water bottles.

  • Order Smart: Get quotes from local printers. You could also look at print-on-demand services to avoid buying lots of stock upfront. Club merchandise ideas should be practical.

  • Make it Easy to Buy: Sell items through your club website or an online club platform. Also, have gear available to buy at games and club events.

  • Offer Good Quality: Choose gear that looks good and lasts. People are more likely to buy and wear items they like.

5. Look for Grants

Many organisations offer grant money for sports clubs and community projects. It takes some research, but grants can provide significant funding.

  • Where to Look: Start local! Check with your local council or municipality for community funding schemes. Also, look into regional or national sports governing bodies for your specific sport – they often have development grants available.

  • Community Foundations: Many regions have foundations dedicated to supporting local initiatives, including sports clubs. These are good non-profit income streams.

  • Write a Clear Application: Read the grant rules carefully. Clearly explain your project, how much money you need, and how it will benefit the club and community.

6. Set Up Easy Donations

Make it simple for supporters, former members, and anyone else who wants to help the club chip in financially.

  • Add an Online Donation Button: Put a clear 'Donate' button on your website. Platforms like ClubMoov can make managing online donations straightforward.

  • Ask for Specific Needs: People are often more willing to donate if they know exactly what the money is for (e.g., "Help us buy new training balls," or "Support our junior team travel").

  • Recognise Supporters: Thank your donors. Maybe create a simple 'Friends of the Club' list on your website or newsletter (ask their permission first).

  • Allow In-Person Donations: Have a donation box or a card reader available at club events or the clubhouse.

7. Offer Paid Workshops or Camps

Use the skills and knowledge within your club to generate income while offering something valuable.

  • Run Skills Sessions: Offer special training workshops during school holidays or weekends focusing on specific techniques, led by your qualified coaches. Charge a fee for these.

  • Host Holiday Camps: Organise sports camps for kids during school breaks. These are often popular with parents and a good income source.

  • Offer Taster Courses: Run free introductory sessions for beginners (children or adults) who want to try the sport before joining as full members.

Conclusion: Building a Stronger Financial Base

For most sports clubs, relying only on membership fees isn't enough.

The strongest clubs mix several of these income ideas, choosing what works best for their sport, their members, and their local area.

Managing all this income well is important. Tools like ClubMoov make the financial admin easier – tracking payments, handling memberships, and communicating with everyone involved. This frees up your time to focus on growing the club.

Find out how ClubMoov can help: Contact