48 Fundraising Ideas for High School Football Teams

Friday night lights, the roar of the crowd, and the team giving it their all—football isn’t just a sport, it’s a tradition. But behind every great high school football season is a budget that covers everything from jerseys to travel costs. 

Relying on ticket sales alone won’t cut it, and asking parents to pitch in every time isn’t sustainable. The good news? There are high school football fundraising ideas that bring in money while keeping the team and community engaged. 

No boring sales, no constant asks—just smart, fun ways to raise funds. Let’s explore ideas that actually work for your team.

Classic Fundraising Ideas That Always Work

Here are a few tried-and-true football fundraising ideas that work well for high school teams.

1. Car Wash

A car wash is simple to set up and brings in funds fast. All you need is a good location, plenty of soap, and a team of players willing to get a little wet. 

Set a donation-based price so people can give what they feel is fair. Adding a "VIP wash" with extra detailing can help increase donations.

2. Bake Sale

Parents and supporters can bake cookies, brownies, and other treats to sell at school or local events. Setting up a table at a football game or outside a grocery store can also increase sales. 

Offer coffee or hot cocoa alongside baked goods during colder months to boost earnings.

3. Team Merchandise Sale

Fans love to show support, and team gear gives them an easy way to do it. 

Sell T-shirts, hoodies, hats, and other branded items at games, online, or during school events. Offer limited-time designs or seasonal items that can keep interest high.

4. 50/50 Raffle

A 50/50 raffle is simple and draws attention. Sell tickets at games, with half the money going to the winner and the other half supporting the team. 

Announcing the winner at halftime or online keeps excitement up and encourages participation.

5. Concession Stand Sales

Selling snacks and drinks at football games is a steady way to bring in funds. 

Popular items like popcorn, nachos, and bottled water are easy to manage. Partnering with local businesses for discounted supplies can keep costs low while maximizing profit.

6. Restaurant Fundraiser Night

Many local restaurants offer fundraising nights where a percentage of sales go to the team. 

Pick a well-loved spot and promote the event through flyers and social media. Encourage players, families, and fans to dine in or order takeout to make a big difference.

7. Coupon Books

Local businesses often provide discounts in exchange for advertising in a coupon book. 

These books can be sold to families and supporters, offering deals on dining, entertainment, and shopping. They work well because buyers get value while supporting the team.

8. Team Sponsorships

Businesses love supporting local teams, especially if they get recognition. Sponsorship packages can include logo placement on banners, jerseys, and game programs. 

Even small businesses are often willing to contribute if they see community involvement.

9. Donation Drive

Sometimes, the simplest way to raise funds is by asking. 

A well-organized donation drive can generate direct support. Set up an online giving page and promote it at games, on social media, and through email. It is one of the low-cost fundraising ideas for football clubs.

10. Silent Auction

A silent auction can be run online or at an event featuring donated items from local businesses. 

Signed sports memorabilia, restaurant gift cards, and experience-based prizes tend to do well. Pair it with another event, like a team dinner, to increase participation.

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Game-Day Football Fundraising Ideas

Game days unite the whole community. With the crowd already there to support the team, adding a few simple fundraising ideas for football clubs can boost earnings while keeping fans engaged.

11. Halftime Field Goal Challenge

Let fans test their kicking skills with a halftime field goal challenge. 

Charge a small entry fee and give winners a prize or bragging rights. This is a fun way to keep the energy of exciting youth football while bringing in extra funds.

12. Sell Reserved Seating

Some fans want the best view without having to arrive early. For a guaranteed spot in the best sections, offer reserved seating at a premium price. 

Parents and fans will appreciate the convenience, making it a solid option for high school football fundraising ideas.

13. Game Program Ads

Local businesses are always looking for ways to get their name out in the community. Selling ad space in game programs is an easy way to raise money while giving businesses exposure. 

Even simple shout-outs for families recognizing their players can bring extra support.

14. Football-Themed Face Painting

Set up a face-painting station near the entrance and offer simple designs like the team logo, player numbers, or mascot. 

Younger fans love it, and it's a quick way to add to game-day earnings.

15. VIP Parking Passes

Parking can be a hassle at big games. Selling VIP parking passes close to the field is a convenient way to raise funds. 

Offer season-long passes or single-game options for fans who want stress-free parking.

16. Team Photo Booth

A photo booth with props like helmets, jerseys, and foam fingers gives fans a fun way to capture memories. 

Charge a small fee per photo or offer digital downloads. Adding a team backdrop makes it even more popular.

17. Kickoff Countdown Fundraiser

Turn the game’s first play into a football fundraiser by having fans guess how long the opening drive will last. 

Sell entries before kickoff. The closest guess wins a small prize, and the rest of the money supports the team.

18. Spirit Banners

Let families and businesses show support by purchasing custom banners to display at games. 

Banners can feature a player’s name, a local business, or an encouraging message. It’s a great way to bring in funds while making the stadium feel even more spirited.

19. Player Trading Cards

Create and sell trading cards featuring team players. These can include stats, fun facts, and action photos. 

Fans, especially younger ones, enjoy collecting and trading them throughout the season.

20. Post-Game Autograph Sessions

Set up a table where players can sign programs, footballs, or team merchandise after the game. Charge a small donation per autograph session or sell pre-signed items to help bring in extra funds.

Find out How High School Fundraising Reflects and Shapes School Culture.

Football-Themed Fundraising Ideas

Football is already at the center of team spirit, so why not use it to raise funds? These high school football fundraising ideas keep the focus on the game while bringing in the support your team needs.

21. Touchdown Pledges

Here is a simple fundraising idea for football clubs. Fans pledge a donation for every touchdown the team scores throughout the season. 

Some may give $1 per touchdown, while others commit to more. This keeps donors engaged all season and provides a steady flow of funds.

22. Football-Themed Trivia Night

A trivia night with football-related questions is a fun way to bring in support. 

Charge an entry fee and offer small prizes for the winners. Hosting the event at a restaurant or community center can help attract more participants.

23. Madden Tournament

A Madden tournament taps into the love of football video games. 

Players pay an entry fee to compete, with a prize for the champion. Holding the tournament at school or a local gaming café can bring in a mix of students and community members.

24. Flag Football Tournament

A flag football tournament is an active way to fundraise while getting more people involved. 

Teams sign up for a fee, and you can sell concessions during the event. Including different age groups makes it a great family-friendly activity.

25. Punt, Pass, and Kick Contest

A punt, pass, and kick contest let fans and players show off their football skills. Charge a small fee to enter, and give prizes for the longest punt, most accurate pass, and best kick. 

This is a simple high school football fundraising idea to raise funds while keeping the focus on football.

26. Fantasy Football League

Create a fantasy football league where participants donate to enter.

The winner at the end of the season gets a prize, and the team keeps the rest of the funds. This works well because it keeps fans engaged throughout the football season.

27. Jersey Raffle

A jersey raffle is easy to set up and popular with fans. Sell tickets at games and online, with the winner receiving a signed jersey or football. 

This type of fundraising for football teams is simple but effective.

28. Coach for a Day

Let a fan step into the role of coach for a day. The highest bidder in an auction gets to stand on the sidelines, call a play, or give a halftime speech.

It’s a great way to engage supporters while raising funds.

29. Customized Footballs

Selling customized footballs with the team logo or player signatures makes for a great keepsake. Taking pre-orders ensures that no extra stock goes to waste. 

This works well at school events, booster club meetings, and home games.

30. Game Film Night

Host a game film night where the team and fans watch classic football games or a highlight reel from the season. Charge a small admission fee and sell snacks to boost earnings. 

This idea works well for both fundraising ideas for football clubs and school teams.

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Community Engagement Fundraisers

Getting the community involved in fundraising makes a big difference. These football fundraising ideas give people a reason to participate while helping the team meet its financial goals.

31. Yard Cleanup Service

Offer yard cleanup services in exchange for donations. Players can rake leaves, pull weeds, or handle basic landscaping. 

Promoting this as a seasonal service—like leaf removal in the fall or lawn prep in the spring—makes it even more appealing.

32. Pet Wash

A pet wash works just like a car wash but for furry friends. 

Set up in a public space, offer shampooing and drying, and let team members take turns helping out. Adding an option for nail trimming or bandanas can bring in extra support.

33. Team Garage Sale

Gather donated items from families and the community, then sell them at a team-run garage sale. 

Organizing everything by category and pricing items affordably will encourage more sales. Leftover items can be donated to a local charity.

34. Football Camp for Kids

Running a football camp for kids is a great way to raise funds while sharing the love of the game. Players and coaches can teach basic skills, run drills, and help younger athletes gain confidence. 

Charging a small registration fee and offering T-shirts or certificates adds value.

35. Community Bingo Night

A community bingo night is simple to organize and fun for all ages. Charge for entry and offer small prizes for winners. Selling snacks and drinks at the event can bring in extra funds.

36. Holiday Gift Wrapping

During the holiday season, offer a gift-wrapping service in a local mall or community center. Shoppers appreciate the convenience, and team members can easily interact with supporters. Providing different wrapping paper styles can make the service more appealing.

37. Cornhole Tournament

A cornhole tournament is the perfect high school football fundraising idea to bring the community together. Charge an entry fee for teams, set up a bracket, and offer a prize for the winners. 

Selling snacks and drinks can add to the fundraising total.

38. Dunk the Coach

Set up a dunk tank at a community event, giving people a chance to dunk the coach, team captains, or even school staff. 

Charging per throw keeps the money coming in while making it a fun attraction.

39. Haunted Locker Room Tour

A haunted locker room tour is a creative way to raise funds around Halloween. 

Turn the locker room into a spooky walk-through experience with decorations, sound effects, and jump scares. Charging admission and selling themed snacks can boost earnings.

Online & Social Media Fundraisers

Running fundraisers online makes it easier to reach a bigger audience, from local supporters to alumni and extended family. These digital ideas help raise funds while keeping engagement high throughout the season.

40. Crowdfunding Campaign

A crowdfunding campaign is one of the most effective football fundraising ideas. Setting up an online donation page and sharing it through email, social media, and team events makes it easy for people to contribute. 

Add photos, videos, and player stories to create a stronger connection with supporters.

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41. Team Fundraising Website

A team fundraising website serves as a central hub for donations, merchandise sales, and event registrations. 

Keeping it updated with schedules, game highlights, and fundraising progress ensures fans stay involved. This works well for long-term high school football fundraising ideas.

42. Social Media Challenges

Running a social media challenge can get the community involved while raising funds. 

Encourage fans to post their best touchdown dance, wear team colors, or take part in a fitness challenge. Participants donate to enter, and the best submissions can win prizes.

43. Livestream Fundraising Event

Hosting a Livestream fundraising event allows the team to connect with supporters in real-time. A Q&A with players, behind-the-scenes footage, or a live raffle can make the event fun. 

Adding donation links during the stream makes it easy for viewers to contribute, making it a simple yet effective way of fundraising for football teams.

44. Amazon Wishlist Donations

An Amazon wishlist makes it easy for supporters to donate specific items the team needs, like training gear, water bottles, or travel supplies. 

Sharing the wishlist on social media helps bring in direct donations without asking for cash.

45. Text-to-Give Campaign

A text-to-give campaign is a fast way to raise money. Fans and supporters donate by sending a simple text message, making it convenient for those at games, events, or following along online. 

This type of fundraiser fits well into fundraising ideas for football clubs because it works year-round.

46. Personalized Shoutouts

Players and coaches can offer personalized shoutouts to donors in exchange for a small contribution. 

These can be video messages, social media posts, or even game-day announcements thanking supporters.

47. Exclusive Team Content

Fans love behind-the-scenes content, so offering exclusive access to pre-game prep, player interviews, or post-game recaps can be a great way to fundraise. 

Charging a small fee for access or setting up a subscription-based model can bring in consistent support.

48. Virtual Fitness Challenge

Hosting a virtual fitness challenge is a creative way to engage supporters while raising funds. 

Participants track their workouts or running miles and compete for prizes. This type of fundraiser ties into exciting youth football by promoting fitness while generating support for the team.

10 Expert Tips To Maximize Football Fundraising

Raising money for a high school football team takes more than just choosing a fundraiser. A solid plan can make all the difference in reaching your fundraising goals. 

Here are ten ways to make sure your football fundraising ideas bring in the most support.

1. Set a Clear Fundraising Goal

People are more likely to support a fundraiser when they know exactly what the money will be used for. Whether you need new uniforms, better equipment, or travel funds, make your goal clear. 

When donors see the impact of their contributions, they are more likely to give.

2. Pick Fundraising Ideas That Fit Your Team

Not all high school football fundraising ideas work the same way. Choose fundraisers that match your team’s strengths and community. 

If your school has a strong fan base, selling team merchandise or hosting a football-themed event could be a great fit. If you have local business connections, sponsorships might be a better route.

3. Involve the Whole Team

The more players, coaches, and parents get involved, the better the fundraiser will do. Assign specific roles to different people. 

Some can handle social media promotion, while others focus on reaching out to local businesses. When everyone pitches in, the workload becomes easier, and the fundraiser gains more visibility.

4. Use Social Media to Spread the Word

Sharing your fundraising appeals online can bring in more support. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok allow players and parents to promote the fundraiser beyond the local community.

Post updates, share pictures, and thank donors publicly to keep engagement high.

5. Make It Easy to Donate

If donating is complicated, people might give up before completing the process. 

Offer multiple ways to contribute, such as online donations, cash, or Venmo. If you’re selling something, set up an easy checkout process so supporters can buy without hassle.

6. Partner with Local Businesses

Many businesses are willing to support football teams in exchange for some promotion. 

Local restaurants, sports stores, and car dealerships might be interested in sponsoring your team or donating a portion of sales on a specific day. Creating partnerships benefits both the team and the business.

7. Plan an Event That Draws a Crowd

Hosting an event brings the community together while raising money. Consider an alumni game, a tailgate party before a big game, or a skills competition where players compete for fun prizes. 

The more engaging the event, the more people will show up and contribute.

8. Keep Track of Progress and Celebrate Milestones

Regular updates help keep players and supporters motivated.

If the goal is to raise $5,000, break it down into smaller goals. Celebrate when you hit each milestone. A simple shoutout on social media or a team-wide announcement keeps the momentum going.

9. Offer Something in Return

People enjoy supporting good causes but also like getting something in return. 

Raffle tickets, team-branded gear, or discount cards for local businesses can encourage more donations. Finding the right balance between fundraising and providing value makes a big difference.

10. Follow Up and Say Thank You

After the fundraiser ends, don’t forget to thank everyone who contributed. Send out thank-you emails, post appreciation messages on social media, and personally acknowledge major supporters. 

Keeping a good relationship with donors helps when it’s time for the next fundraiser.