How to Finance Playground Equipment for Daycares

Playgrounds are more than fun—they’re an essential part of early childhood development. Daycares that invest in safe, high-quality playground equipment create an environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. But outfitting a daycare with slides, climbing structures, safety surfacing, and fencing can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000+, depending on size and features.

For many daycare owners, paying that much upfront isn’t realistic. That’s why financing solutions like loans, leases, and grants make playground equipment more affordable.

Why Financing Playground Equipment Makes Sense

• Lower Upfront Costs – Avoid spending tens of thousands at once.

• Cash Flow Stability – Spread payments into predictable monthly installments.

• Faster Setup – Build your playground sooner instead of waiting years to save.

• Upgrade Flexibility – Leases allow upgrades as equipment needs change.

• Tax & Grant Alignment – Financing can be structured around childcare subsidies and grants.

Types of Playground Equipment Eligible for Financing

✔ Climbing Structures & Slides – The centerpiece of most daycare play areas.
✔ Swing Sets & Seesaws – Classic, engaging playground activities.
✔ Soft Play & Toddler Zones – Indoor or outdoor play equipment designed for younger children.
✔ Safety Surfacing – Rubber tiles, turf, or poured-in-place surfacing.
✔ Shading & Fencing – Protects children and ensures safety.
✔ Inclusive Play Equipment – Adaptive equipment for children with disabilities.

Financing Options for Daycare Playgrounds

1. Equipment Loans

• Borrow funds to purchase playground equipment outright.

• Fixed monthly payments, with ownership from day one.

• Best for long-term use and durable structures.

2. Lease-to-Own Programs

• Lower upfront costs.

• Ownership transfers at the end of the lease.

• Ideal for growing daycares needing flexibility.

3. Operating Leases

• Lowest monthly costs.

• Equipment returned or upgraded at lease-end.

• Useful for temporary or fast-changing setups.

4. SBA Loans & Childcare Financing Programs

• SBA 7(a) or 504 loans can cover playgrounds as part of facility upgrades.

• State childcare development funds sometimes support equipment purchases.

5. Grants & Community Funding

• Local governments and nonprofits often fund childcare facility improvements.

• Fundraising campaigns can complement loans or leases.

Example Financing Scenario

A daycare wants to add:

• Playground Structure with Slides & Climbers = $40,000

• Safety Surfacing = $15,000

• Shade Structures & Fencing = $10,000

Total Investment: $65,000

With a 7-year equipment loan at 6.5%, monthly payments are about $960.
If the daycare increases enrollment by just 3 new children at $350/month each, the financing is fully covered.

Tips for Financing Success

✔ Create a detailed equipment plan (with vendor quotes) before applying.
✔ Combine  grants and loans to minimize borrowing.
✔ Bundle multiple purchases into a single financing package.
✔ Highlight the educational and safety benefits in funding applications.
✔ Track ROI—measure how a new playground improves enrollment and retention.

Final Thoughts

For daycare centers, a well-equipped playground is both a marketing tool and a developmental necessity. With equipment financing options like loans, leases, and grants, creating safe, fun play spaces is possible without overwhelming your budget. The right funding strategy ensures children benefit today while your daycare grows sustainably for the future.