Planning Your Own Team Building Series: Part 3 – Budgeting for Your Team Building Event

Now that you’ve gathered insights and shortlisted vendors, it’s time to talk numbers. Budgeting might not sound like the most exciting part of team building—but getting it right ensures you don’t overspend and still deliver a great experience.

 

Here are the key cost components to factor in when planning your session or series.

 

1. ACTIVITY FEES

This is usually the main cost of your event and can vary based on:

  • The complexity of the activity (e.g. simple games vs. immersive races)
  • The number of facilitators required
  • Customisation or theming

If you’re planning a short session for a smaller team, vendors like PulseLite offer budget-friendly options designed for leaner teams without compromising on engagement. Always clarify what’s included in the fee—some vendors bundle in facilitators, materials, and logistics, while others charge à la carte.

 

Tip: Keep things simple for smaller teams. You don’t need fireworks—just a well-executed session that’s relevant and fun.

 

2. VENUE FEES (WHERE APPLICABLE)

Venue costs can vary wildly depending on:

  • Location (central venues typically cost more)
  • Type of space (air-conditioned function rooms vs. open fields)
  • Duration and setup needs

Here are a few budget-conscious options:

  • Free: Your office or nearby common areas (check first if activities are allowed)
  • Community Centres: Like Kreta Ayer CC – affordable and central
  • Public Parks: Labrador Park or futsal courts, though you may need a permit
  • Subsidised Venues: Like e2i or LLI, which offer great value for indoor sessions

If you’re planning a series, it might be worth negotiating a package deal for repeat bookings or looking for venues that don’t charge by the hour.

 

3. PRIZES (OPTIONAL, BUT FUN!)

Prizes aren’t mandatory, but they do add excitement—especially for challenge-based activities or races. You don’t need to break the bank here.

 

Budget-friendly ideas:

  • Snack packs or goodie bags
  • Gift cards (even small amounts work)
  • Company swag or novelty trophies
  • Extra time off or fun team privileges

Tip: Keep it light-hearted. The gesture matters more than the cost.

 

4. FOOD & REFRESHMENTS

Don’t underestimate the bonding power of food! Whether it’s a post-activity meal or mid-session snack break, this is often the highlight for many teams.

 

Options include:

  • Booking a team lunch/dinner nearby (great way to wrap up)
  • Catering simple bento sets or finger food
  • Snacks and drinks during the activity (especially if it’s outdoors)

If your event is shorter (e.g. 1.5–2 hours), snacks might be enough. For half-day or full-day events, a meal is usually appreciated—and sometimes expected.

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

You don’t need a huge budget to run a great team building event. With smart planning and prioritising what matters most to your team, you can create something engaging and meaningful—without overspending.

At PulseLite, we’re big believers that impact > budget. Whether it’s a one-off session or part of a longer series, we’re here to help you make the most of every dollar—so you can focus on the bonding, not the budgeting.

 

If you want to read more articles, Click here