Team Building vs. Team Bonding: Pricing, Grants, and What You Need to Know

Planning a team building event can feel a little overwhelming — especially when it comes to budgeting. Costs can vary widely depending on what you’re looking for, and many companies aren’t sure where to start.

The good news? With a clear understanding of the factors that influence pricing (and even some ways to reduce costs), you can make smart decisions that give you maximum impact for your investment.

Let’s break it down.

1. What Really Drives the Cost of Team Building?

Several key factors will determine how much you pay:

• Group size – Bigger teams mean more facilitators, more logistics, and often bulk pricing.

• Format – Virtual activities are generally more affordable, while in-person events can involve venue rental, travel, and catering costs.

• Duration – A one-hour icebreaker is not the same as a full-day retreat.

• Customization – Off-the-shelf workshops are more cost-effective; fully tailored experiences can come at a premium.

• Location – City, venue choice, and transportation can all add to your bottom line.

2. Typical Price Ranges

Here’s a ballpark guide to what you can expect:

• Virtual team building: $20–$75 per person

• Half-day in-person workshop: $50–$150 per person

• Full-day retreat or offsite: $150–$500 per person (includes facilitation, venue, meals)

• Premium experiences: $500+ per person (overnight retreats, adventure-based activities, etc.)

*These prices are based on multiple companies across multiple countries

3. How to Maximize ROI

Team building shouldn’t just be a one-off feel-good moment. To make the most of your budget:

• Align activities with business goals like communication, leadership, or problem-solving.

• Balance fun with development so people stay engaged while learning.

• Capture takeaways and apply them back at work to create lasting change.

4. Cut Costs with Government Grants and Programs

Here’s something many companies overlook: you don’t always have to pay for team building out of pocket. Government programs often help employers cover the cost of training and development. For example, in Quebec, the Workforce Skills Development and Recognition Fund (WSDRF) requires companies to invest at least 1% of their payroll in training. Many structured team building workshops — especially those focused on leadership, communication, or collaboration — can qualify under this fund.

Similar programs exist in other provinces and countries, so it’s worth exploring your local workforce development agencies. These grants can make professional-quality team building surprisingly affordable.

5. Choosing the Right Partner

Not all providers are created equal. When comparing options, look for:

• Transparent pricing – Flat fees vs. per person rates.

• Proven results – Reviews, case studies, and client stories.

• Scalable packages – Options that fit both small and large teams.

• Accredited suppliers – Many funding programs (like the WSDRF) require you to use recognized training providers for eligibility.

6. Comparing Apples to Apples: Team Bonding vs. Team Building

This is where many companies get tripped up. Team bonding and team building aren’t the same thing:

• Team Bonding = Fun social activities like bowling, escape rooms, or happy hours. Great for morale, but they don’t usually build workplace skills.

  
  

• Team Building = Facilitated experiences designed to improve collaboration, problem-solving, or leadership. These align with organizational goals and often qualify for training grants.

So while a $50 bowling night is fun, it’s not equivalent to a $200 facilitated workshop that improves how departments collaborate. When comparing prices, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples.

Conclusion

Team building is more than just an expense — it’s an investment in your people. By understanding what drives pricing, exploring funding options, and choosing the right partner, you can plan experiences that not only fit your budget but also deliver measurable impact.

And remember: don’t confuse team bonding with true team building. One builds memories. The other builds stronger, more effective teams.