Running an amusement park or entertainment center isn’t just about thrills—it’s about delivering memorable experiences that keep guests coming back. But behind the scenes, those experiences come at a cost: ride maintenance, staffing, food operations, safety upgrades, and expansion projects.
Whether you're operating a seasonal fairground, indoor play zone, trampoline park, or full-scale theme park, funding amusement parks and entertainment facilities can give you the capital needed to grow, improve safety, modernize experiences, and increase profits.
Entertainment businesses are capital-intensive. You may need funding to:
Install new rides or interactive experiences
Expand facility space or build new attractions
Upgrade food courts or ticketing systems
Comply with updated safety codes
Cover seasonal payroll or training costs
Launch high-impact marketing campaigns
Financing helps you keep up with industry trends and guest expectations—without draining your operating budget.
Best for: Expansion, real estate, or working capital.
Up to $5 million
Flexible use: rides, renovations, marketing
Long repayment terms with low rates
Requires strong credit and documentation
Best for: Purchasing or upgrading rides, game machines, kitchen appliances, etc.
The asset secures the loan
Conserves cash flow
Can cover 100% of equipment cost
Best for: Buying or expanding amusement park grounds.
Long-term financing for land and buildings
May include construction financing
Best for: Managing seasonal cash flow, maintenance costs, or short-term needs.
Flexible draw options
Pay interest only on funds used
Reusable credit as you repay
Best for: Entertainment businesses with high card-based revenue.
Repayment tied to your daily/weekly revenue
Easier qualification than traditional loans
Good for businesses with unpredictable income
New roller coasters or interactive rides
Ride inspection and compliance costs
Safety signage and infrastructure improvements
Food truck stations or themed dining areas
Mobile POS and order kiosks
Staff training and uniforms
VR gaming pods
Redemption counters and prize systems
Indoor playground equipment or escape rooms
Mobile ticketing systems
RFID wristbands or app integration
Loyalty programs and digital pass systems
Landscaping and seating areas
Restroom renovations
Shade structures or water misters for hot climates
Before: A family entertainment center in the Midwest had a few basic attractions—mini-golf, go-karts, and batting cages—but wanted to stay open year-round.
Solution: They used a $250,000 SBA 7(a) loan to:
Build a new indoor trampoline park
Install a digital arcade with swipe cards
Expand the café with seasonal menus
Result: The facility tripled its annual revenue, retained staff year-round, and became a destination for school trips and birthday parties.
To secure financing, be ready to meet these criteria:
| Criteria | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Credit Score | Ideally 650+ (some lenders accept lower for revenue-based) |
| Time in Business | Minimum 1–2 years preferred |
| Revenue History | Strong and consistent monthly cash flow |
| Business Plan | Clearly outline expansion or upgrade goals |
| Collateral (if applicable) | Real estate, equipment, or business assets |
Define your project scope: Break down upgrades or expansion plans
Collect financials: Tax returns, P&L statements, cash flow projections
Get quotes: From ride manufacturers, contractors, or equipment suppliers
Create a use-of-funds summary: Clearly show how the money will be spent
Compare lenders: Evaluate loan terms, interest rates, and turnaround time
Traditional Banks (for SBA and real estate loans)
Online Lenders like Funding Circle, Lendio, or BlueVine
Specialty Equipment Lenders for ride or arcade purchases
SBA-Approved Lenders
Private Investors or Capital Firms (for large-scale parks or expansions)
Don’t overlook alternative or supplementary funding:
Tourism grants or local development funds
Tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades
Crowdfunding campaigns for new attractions
Vendor financing (some ride manufacturers offer payment plans)
In the entertainment industry, experience is everything—and that often requires investment. From cutting-edge rides to immersive technology, funding your amusement park or facility isn’t just about upkeep. It’s about growth, differentiation, and long-term profitability.
With the right financing, you can thrill guests, outpace competitors, and turn your attraction into a must-visit destination.
Ready to scale your amusement park or entertainment facility?
Explore your financing options and bring your vision to life—one upgrade at a time.