Why crowdfunding is important for sport right now
The challenges currently facing sport in Germany are enormous: the renovation backlog for sports facilities is growing, public funding is becoming increasingly scarce and the political framework conditions are uncertain. But it is precisely in this crisis that there is no point in burying one's head in the sand. At Sportinfra in Frankfurt, this was clearly demonstrated: With many committed stakeholders, a good network and more cooperation than competition, we manage to become capable of acting ourselves.
Last week, we had the opportunity to present Fairplaid and crowdfunding as a financing option. The response was overwhelming - and it confirmed once again how urgently this topic is currently needed.
The initial situation: Sport in financial distress
The situation could hardly be more challenging. The political uncertainty caused by the difficult situation of the current governing coalition is having a direct impact on sports funding. Less and less funding is available from the federal, state and local governments, while the need to renovate sports facilities continues to grow. Numerous projects are stagnating, not because of a lack of commitment, but simply for financial reasons.
Whether it is the urgent renovation of outdated sports facilities, the installation of floodlights, the construction of modern artificial turf pitches or the implementation of sustainable solar and photovoltaic systems - the list of urgently needed investments is long. Without creative solutions, many projects are in danger of failing and our sports landscape will continue to "rot away".
Crowdfunding: mobilizing the power of civil society
It is precisely in this context that crowdfunding is gaining in importance. It not only offers an additional source of funding, but also makes it possible to involve the broad base of civil society. Together with associations, companies, local authorities and sports clubs, we rely on the support of the people who benefit directly from the projects.
Crowdfunding makes it possible to bring committed people together and give them a platform to make their concerns visible. In this way, financial hurdles can be overcome - regardless of whether it is the renovation of a clubhouse, the purchase of new sports equipment or larger infrastructure measures.
Success stories and solutions
During Sportinfra, we were not only able to present the advantages of crowdfunding, but also show concrete examples and solutions. Projects that have been realized via Fairplaid have made it clear that successful financing is not only a question of means, but also of the right strategy. A decisive advantage: crowdfunding creates transparency and strengthens the sense of community. Supporters are directly involved in the success of the project, which creates trust and increases loyalty to and identification with the association.
A look into the future
The discussions at Sportinfra showed us how great the need for new funding options is and how open many stakeholders in sport are to alternative approaches. The times when only state funding and membership fees were used for projects are over. Creative approaches are now needed to clear the renovation backlog and realize new visions for sport.
Our goal remains to create solutions together with committed local people. We see ourselves not only as a platform, but also as a partner for associations, clubs and local authorities who want to implement sustainable and effective projects with us.
Thank you for your commitment!
A big thank you to everyone who supported us at Sportinfra and joined us in emphasizing the urgency of this issue. Together we are strong - and together we can ensure that sport in Germany receives the financial basis it deserves.
Further information:
www.fairplaid.com/sportinfra
Platform for the financing of sports projects:
www.fairplaid.org
