FAQ
Youth sports funding: getting started
The first questions — starting with who this money is actually for.
- Is this funding for my family or for my league?
- Both — but they're different tracks, and it's worth knowing which one you're in. Families struggling with registration fees have their own set of programs (Every Kid Sports, All Kids Play). Leagues, clubs, and booster organizations chasing equipment, field improvements, or cash grants have a separate set. Applying in the wrong track is the most common wasted effort, so figure out your audience first.
- What's open right now?
- For families: the Every Kid Sports Pass Fall 2026 round ($150 per child) is open, and All Kids Play takes applications on a rolling basis. For leagues: Good Sports gives equipment year-round (no 501(c)(3) required), and Pitch In For Baseball & Softball runs a fall equipment cycle from July 1 to September 30.
- What's the difference between an equipment donation and a cash grant?
- A big one for leagues. Equipment-donation programs (like Good Sports) send you gear, not money, and often don't require 501(c)(3) status — they're the easiest wins. Cash grants give you dollars but are harder: most require a 501(c)(3) and a clear community-benefit story. Start with equipment donations while you build toward the cash grants.
- Do we need to be a 501(c)(3)?
- For a lot of the best programs, no. Good Sports and the family fee-assistance programs don't require it. Cash grants usually do — and if your league needs one, you can file the streamlined IRS Form 1023-EZ or work under a fiscal sponsor. (General information — confirm tax questions with a professional.)
Youth sports funding splits cleanly into two audiences. Sort out which one you’re in, then dive into the family fee-assistance guide or the equipment guide for leagues.
Next step
Get matched when we launch
Amivale is launching soon. Join the waitlist and we'll match your youth sports teams to funding the day it opens — no spam, one email.