Frankenmuth Pickleball Court Crowdfunding: A new project in Frankenmuth, Michigan, aims to build eight public pickleball courts through a crowdfunding campaign launched by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the City of Frankenmuth. If the campaign raises $50,000 by August 22, 2025, it will receive a matching grant through the Public Spaces Community Places program.
New Courts to Serve the Community
The new courts will be next to the City of Frankenmuth’s office and public safety complex. The plan includes eight full-sized courts, seating, and parking. These courts will be close to many homes, making them easy for residents to reach. The goal is to make the courts free and open to all.
“Access to free and public recreation is a key component of positive public health outcomes and we are happy to support that with the development of these new community pickleball courts in Frankenmuth,”
said Paula Holtz, Regional Prosperity Managing Director at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
How the Project Began
Pickleball first came to Frankenmuth 12 years ago thanks to local resident Dave Budnik. For years, players either traveled to other towns or played on tennis courts. Now, an organized group of players and residents have teamed up with the city to make a permanent home for the sport.
“This is a project that started with a group of passionate residents, committed to finding a way to find a permanent home for pickleball,”
said Tom Meyer, Mayor of the City of Frankenmuth.
“Our community has come to appreciate that pickleball is truly a sport for everyone — whether it’s physical activity, motivation, or social connection.”
Support from State and Local Leaders
The campaign is hosted on the Michigan-based platform Patronicity. The Public Spaces Community Places initiative is a joint effort between the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity. Since 2014, the program has helped over 400 projects in Michigan.
“Pickleball is currently sweeping the nation; it’s a fun, accessible recreational activity that simultaneously improves physical and mental wellbeing,”
said Dan Gilmartin, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League.
“By creating this dedicated space for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels, this initiative will strengthen the social fabric of Frankenmuth.”
Growing Impact of the PSCP Program
Since the start of the Public Spaces Community Places initiative, more than $14.3 million has been awarded in matching grants. By July 8, 2025, the program had helped 415 projects succeed, raising over $16.3 million from more than 75,000 donors. About 97 percent of all projects meet their funding goals.
News in Brief: Frankenmuth Pickleball Court Crowdfunding
Frankenmuth, Michigan, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise $50,000 for eight new public pickleball courts. If successful by August 22, 2025, the project will get a matching grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The courts aim to improve local recreation and bring the community together.
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