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Bounce for a Cause FAQ

Welcome to the official FAQ page for Bounce for a Cause, The Dunk Tank Company’s Charity Partnership Program.
Here you’ll find answers to common questions about how the program works, who can apply, how payouts are handled, and what to expect once your organization joins the Bounce for a Cause family.


💡 General Questions

What is Bounce for a Cause?

Bounce for a Cause is a charitable partnership program by The Dunk Tank Company, allowing nonprofits and 501(c)(3) organizations to invest in inflatables and receive ongoing payouts from each rental. Every time your sponsored inflatable is rented, your organization earns 20% of the listed rental rate while The Dunk Tank Company handles setup, insurance, and operations.


Who can apply?

The program is open to:

  • Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits and community organizations

  • Family-friendly causes that aim to better humanity or serve local families

  • Both local and national charities, though local Michigan-based organizations receive priority consideration

Organizations that are politically affiliated, controversial, or not family-appropriate may be declined.


How do I apply?

Simply fill out the application form at the bottom of the page.
Our team reviews each submission to ensure mission alignment and will reach out to discuss next steps, available units, and timeline details.


💰 Financial Questions

How much does it cost to join?

Approved organizations invest 50% of the unit’s purchase price.
For example:

  • A $4,000 inflatable → $2,000 nonprofit investment

Units are typically purchased during the IAAPA Show (2nd week of November) when The Dunk Tank Company buys new inventory at sale pricing. However, units can also be added during the regular season if needed.


How long does it take to earn back our investment?

Most inflatables recoup their full investment within the first season.
Waterslides typically take two seasons since they rent primarily during the summer months (roughly three months per year).

Once paid off, the unit continues to generate payouts for up to five years or more as long as it remains rentable.


How are payouts calculated?

Nonprofits receive 20% of the rental rate listed on The Dunk Tank Company website — not the discounted or negotiated rate if one is offered to the customer.

Unit Type Average Rental Nonprofit Payout
Bounce House $200 $40
Combo Bounce House $250 $50
Waterslide $400–$450 $80–$90

When do payouts occur?

  • Seasonal units (bounce houses, slides, etc.): Payouts are issued at the end of the rental season (September–October)

  • Year-round units: Payouts are issued at the end of December

Each nonprofit receives a rental summary report showing how often the inflatable was rented and total payout owed.


What happens if the inflatable doesn’t earn back the investment?

The Dunk Tank Company guarantees that your organization will be made whole.
Units are not resold — instead, they are used until no longer safe or viable, ensuring your investment continues to serve families and your mission.


Can our organization reinvest our earnings?

Yes! Nonprofits can reinvest their annual earnings into new inflatables to expand their portfolio and impact. This is a great way to keep the program sustainable and grow visibility for your cause year after year.


Who owns the inflatable?

All inflatables are owned and insured by The Dunk Tank Company.
This structure ensures full liability protection for partner nonprofits and streamlines maintenance, insurance, and legal compliance.


Who covers maintenance, cleaning, and insurance?

The Dunk Tank Company covers:

  • Routine maintenance and deep cleaning

  • Storage and transportation

  • Setup and teardown labor

  • Liability insurance

Your organization has zero ongoing costs — just the initial 50% investment.


🎨 Marketing & Exposure

How will our charity be promoted?

Each partner receives:

  • A dedicated landing page featuring your mission, photos of your inflatable, and donation links

  • On-unit signage with your logo, story, and QR codes for quick donations and bookings

  • Social media promotion through The Dunk Tank Company’s platforms

  • Permission to promote the partnership on your own website and social pages, with official links provided


Can we customize our inflatable’s colors or theme?

Yes! We aim to match each inflatable’s color scheme, theme, or style with your organization’s brand whenever possible.
We purchase many of our units during the IAAPA show when custom options are available.


Will our logo appear on the inflatable?

Your logo will appear on signage and marketing materials.
Physical logo placement on the inflatable itself depends on the manufacturer’s design and customization options.


Do renters know their inflatable supports a charity?

Yes. Each Bounce for a Cause unit features a display sign explaining the partnership, your mission, and QR codes that link directly to:

  • Your charity’s website or donation page

  • The Dunk Tank Company’s rental page for that unit

This allows renters and event guests to learn about your mission and donate instantly from their phones.


⚙️ Operations & Logistics

How many times will our inflatable rent out per year?

Rental frequency depends on the type of unit, weather, and season.

  • Bounce Houses typically rent 20–30+ times per year

  • Waterslides average 15–25 rentals per summer

Each charity receives a seasonal report showing exact rental data.


Can we help choose where our inflatable goes?

Typically, rentals are assigned automatically based on customer bookings and delivery zones. However, nonprofits may request special appearances at their own fundraising events or community days, subject to scheduling availability.


How do you decide which units to buy?

We choose inflatables that fit your brand colors, mission, and family appeal while ensuring strong rental potential. We review trending designs at the IAAPA trade show and year-round to maximize your return on investment.


What happens if the inflatable is damaged beyond repair early in its life?

The Dunk Tank Company may replace the unit or offer a payout up to projected rentals. This is pending The Dunk Tank Company's management


Is there a minimum or maximum number of nonprofits you plan to accept each year?

The Dunk Tank Company looks to add 1-2 new non-profits each year, but those numbers are not set in stone. We consider all opportunities.


Can multiple nonprofits partner on a single inflatable?

If this were the case all non-profits would split the 20% instead of receiving the full20%. This would reduce upfront cost but also make it less income producing each rental. We are not opposed to this option but we don't actively recommend it either.


🧾 Legal & Administrative

Is there a written agreement?

Yes. Every partnership includes a signed Charity Partnership Agreement outlining:

  • Investment amount

  • Payout percentage and schedule

  • Maintenance and insurance details

  • Ownership and liability terms

  • Marketing and usage rights

This ensures clarity and transparency for all parties.


Are we covered under The Dunk Tank Company’s insurance?

Yes. All Bounce for a Cause units are covered under The Dunk Tank Company’s General Liability policy, protecting both the renter and your organization.


How long do partnerships last?

Most inflatables operate for 3–5 years, but the partnership continues as long as the unit remains rentable. If a unit exceeds that lifespan, The Dunk Tank Company may extend the partnership or invite the nonprofit to reinvest in a new unit.


Can our organization purchase multiple inflatables?

Yes! We are limited on The Dunk Tank Company's budget for purchasing new units but we can always be in talks about buy 2+ units in one year.


What if our charity’s branding or leadership changes?

Branding wise the signs will be reprinted and new logos will be updated on future posts. If the unit is your colors and the colors change unfortunately we can't change the colors. We would have to have discussions on options at that time.


Is there a limit on payout amount per year?

There's no limit.


📞 Getting Started

How can we contact The Dunk Tank Company about joining?

You can reach our team through the application form on the bottom of this page or by contacting us directly through our Contact The Dunk Tank Company page.
Once we review your application, we’ll schedule a call to discuss timelines, unit ideas, and next steps.