What The First Tee does

The First Tee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization incorporated as PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation, Inc. (EIN 83-4186070), founded in 1997 as a partnership among the LPGA, Masters Tournament, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, and USGA to make golf affordable and accessible for youth. The organization delivers age-segmented programs for participants aged 7-9, 10-11, 12-13, and 14+, integrating golf instruction with a proprietary life skills curriculum built around five Key Commitments (Pursuing Goals, Growing through Challenge, Collaborating with Others, Building Positive Self-Identity, and Using Good Judgment).

The operational platform consists of 150 chapters delivering programs at golf courses, in-school and after-school programs (First Tee School Program), and community sites across the United States and select international locations (Canada, Australia, Mexico, Morocco, South Korea). Supporting product surface includes the First Tee App (gamified progress and badge tracking), the Ace capstone for high-school teens, the College Scholarship Program (need/merit scholarships up to $5,000 annually), national events such as the National Championship and PURE Insurance Championship exemptions, and an Alumni Network. A proprietary annual research collaboration with The Harris Poll underpins curriculum design and impact reporting.

The business model is donation-driven: revenue is sourced primarily from individual donations, corporate trustee-level sponsorships (Chevron, Coca-Cola, Charles Schwab, Wells Fargo, AWS, CDW, Mastercard, TaylorMade, and others), Impact Partner and Network Partner tiers, and chapter-directed contributions. Pricing is not applicable in the traditional sense — programs are delivered free or at nominal chapter-set fees, and donations are tax-deductible. Distribution is hybrid: chapter-level direct engagement plus national marketing through the firsttee.org website, an email newsletter, and social channels (Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn). The organization is led by CEO Greg McLaughlin and is headquartered at the PGA TOUR campus in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

Name

The First Tee

Legal name

PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation, Inc.

Website

https://firsttee.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

1997

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

The First Tee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that delivers golf-integrated life skills and character education programs to youth ages 7-18 through 150 chapters across the US and five additional countries, funded by corporate trustees, individual donations, and foundation grants.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Youth Development Services

NAICS

Sports and Recreation Instruction (611620)

SIC

Services-Membership Sports & Recreation Clubs (7997)

akta.pro primary industry

Golf Courses & Golf Facilities (MPAKAEAD)

akta.pro secondary industry

Golf Clubs & Tournament-Host Clubs (Professional/Elite Golf Clubs) (MPAKABAE)

Keywords

• Youth development programs
• Junior golf instruction
• Life skills curriculum
• Character education
• Community golf programs

Headquarters

HQ city

Saint Augustine

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Others

Revenue model

1. Donations and Charitable Contributions: First Tee is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 83-4186070) funded primarily through donations from individuals and corporations. Donations support national operations including coach training, curriculum development, adult education, and technology that strengthens the chapter network.
2. Corporate Partnerships and Sponsorships: Corporate partners provide financial support at Trustee ($1M+), Impact Partner, Inspired Partner, and Network Partner levels. Partners include major corporations across automotive, technology, consumer goods, financial services, and golf industries.
3. Chapter-Based Support: Donations can be directed to specific local chapters to support programs, mentors, golf and life skills instruction in specific communities.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels9 records

Core offering

The First Tee operates youth development programs that integrate golf instruction with a life skills and character education curriculum for children and teens ages 7-18. Delivered through a national network of 150 chapters, school programs, and community sites, the organization uses golf as a vehicle to teach nine core values and healthy habits while providing pathways to college scholarships, leadership opportunities, and an alumni network.

Product overview

First Tee is a youth development organization offering a unified portfolio of golf-based personal growth programs delivered through 150 chapters and an online community. The core offering consists of age-specific programs (Ages 7-9, 10-11, 12-13, and 14+) that integrate golf instruction with life skills curriculum focused on building character, self-confidence, and resilience. Supporting programs include the Ace capstone program for high school teens, National Events (championships and leadership opportunities), the College Scholarship Program, the Alumni Network for ongoing engagement, and the School and Community Programs for in-school and after-school delivery. A companion mobile app enables participants to track progress, earn badges, and engage through gamification. The organization was founded in 1997 as a partnership among the LPGA, Masters Tournament, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, and USGA.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• First Tee National Championship: Annual national championship event for First Tee's elite golfers, ages 14-18, providing opportunity to showcase skills and values learned at First Tee chapters
• First Tee Ace
• First Tee College Scholarship Program
• First Tee School Program
• First Tee Community Program

Products and services

• First Tee Programming (Levels: PLAYer, PAR, BIRDIE, EAGLE, ACE) Core age-segmented youth program where participants progress through five levels (PLAYer, PAR, BIRDIE, EAGLE, ACE), each combining golf skills instruction with life skills, character education, and healthy habits lessons. Targeted at kids and teens ages 7-18.
• Ace Program The most advanced program level that emphasizes giving back through coaching, mentoring younger participants, and leadership development for teens who have progressed through prior program levels.
• First Tee School Program A school-based PE curriculum integration that brings First Tee's character education and modified golf activities into physical education classes at elementary and middle schools.
• First Tee Community Program Program delivery at community centers, youth-serving organizations, and municipal sites that bring golf and life skills programming to kids who lack access to traditional golf courses.
• National Events and Tournaments Signature annual events where top participants from across the network compete and develop; includes opportunities such as the Champions Tour event that brings together youth participants.
• College Scholarship Program Scholarship awards granted to program alumni to support pursuit of higher education, provided through application-based selection.
• First Tee Alumni Network An alumni network for past participants that provides continued leadership, mentoring, volunteer, and career networking opportunities beyond the age-segmented program.
• First Tee Mobile App A mobile application that supports participants with golf skill practice, life skills lessons, and progression through program levels.

Quantifiable outcome

• 90% of alumni consider themselves lifelong golfers
• +5 more outcomes

Named customers4 records

Segments6 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration4 records

Feature3 records

Partnerships

44 partnerships are on record, tiered chapter partnership, trustee, core, proud media partner, proud golf publication partner, education patron, impact partner and founding trustee.

• The Patch Project LLCchapter partnershipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2025Partnership involving Augusta Technical College, The First Tee of Augusta, and Masters Tournament Charities that renovated the Augusta Municipal Golf Course known as The Patch. The project included improvements designed by golf architects Tom Fazio and Beau Welling, featuring a course designed by TGR Design (Tiger Woods' firm).
• TruGreentrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2024Partners with First Tee College Scholarship Program to support selected alumni with scholarships up to $5,000 per year for four years. Associates serve as mentors and contribute to professional development and educational sessions.
• James HardietrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee since 2023. Committed to Build a Better Future for All through strengthening communities including Chicago and West Palm Beach. Supports First Tee network through product donation opportunities for chapters building and renovating golf and learning facilities. Featured at the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational.
• John DeeretrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Corporate partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development through golf programs.
• Morgan StanleytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• SentrytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• PwCtrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• SompotrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• KohlertrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• PINGtrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• Topgolf CallawaytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• Pebble Beach CompanytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs through venue hosting for PURE Insurance Championship.
• PURE InsurancetrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Title sponsor of PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA TOUR Champions event that pairs professionals and junior players for competition and mentorship at Pebble Beach Golf Links each September.
• The Harris PollcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2023Conducts annual research with First Tee on youth character development, parental perspectives on youth sports, and the value of coaching. Published 2024 and 2025 studies on cultivating the next generation of character.
• Golf Channelproud media partnerGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Proud media partner providing coverage and promotion of First Tee programs and events.
• Golf Digestproud golf publication partnerGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Proud golf publication partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development through golf.
• Southern Companyeducation patronGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Education patron supporting First Tee's educational mission and programs.
• CapTechtrusteeTechnology or Integration · 1 January 2023Trustee partner providing technology expertise and support for First Tee programs.
• Century GolftrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• CBStrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission through media coverage and promotion.
• ESPNtrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission through sports media coverage.
• Nature ValleytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• NBCtrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission through media coverage and promotion.
• Dick's Sporting GoodstrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth sports development.
• WorkdaytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2023Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• Genesisimpact partnerGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2022Genesis continued its support for First Tee with a $100,000 donation in early 2026, maintaining a total contribution of $500,000 since 2022 to promote youth development through golf. Donation made at an event in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, emphasizing partnership's focus on community and youth empowerment.
• CDWtrusteeTechnology or Integration · 1 January 2022Joined as Trustee in 2022. Advances digital equity through technology access, education support, and building diverse, inclusive workforce. CDW provides technology enhancements to chapters including First Tee - Greater Detroit and First Tee - Greater Chicago.
• GallaghertrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2022Joined as Trustee in 2022, committed to helping First Tee grow its impact and empower youth. Provides support including Alumni Summit presented by Gallagher, Golf Day at Gallagher Way, and support for local chapters.
• AccenturetrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2022Honored to support First Tee's mission to empower young people through golf. Partnership enables sharing of success stories and acknowledgment of alumni impact on communities.
• 3MtrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2022Trustee partner supporting First Tee's mission and youth development programs.
• Amazon Web Services (AWS)trusteeTechnology or Integration · 1 January 2021Joined as Trustee in 2021. Investment furthers First Tee's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, supports STEM education, and funds First Tee School Program in Title I schools. AWS assists with developing online community for coaches, parents, and participants.
• TaylorMade GolftrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2021Celebrating 20 years of partnership supporting young people, their families, and communities. Provided resources and access to equipment and accessories for thousands of young golfers. Expanded in 2021 to reach children of active military personnel and veterans.
• Wells FargotrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2012Proud supporter since 2012 and title sponsor of the Wells Fargo Championship on PGA TOUR. Supports First Tee's Future Entrepreneurs program presented by Wells Fargo celebrating alumni at HBCUs with mentorship and networking opportunities.
• ChevrontrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2011Deep connection to First Tee's mission since 2011. Supports PURE Insurance Championship benefit through the Chevron Challenge which provides significant support to the First Tee College Scholarship Program.
• PGA TOUR SuperstoretrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2008Proud partner since 2008. Supports leadership summit in Montana, First Tee Scholarship program, teen retention initiatives, and the First Tee School Program. 1,300+ teenagers participate in annual five-week leadership development program. 40 teens selected annually for week-long summit at West Creek Ranch in Montana.
• The Coca-Cola CompanytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2005Proud partner and supporter since 2005. Supporter of the First Tee end of year giving campaign through matching gift initiative. Also supports First Tee of Metro Atlanta chapter.
• MastercardtrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 2002Official payment system of PGA TOUR, proud partner since 2002 with 21 years of consecutive giving. Supports First Tee and chapters including First Tee - Metropolitan New York and First Tee - Connecticut in expanding programs, growing school presence, and developing after-school partnerships.
• Charles SchwabtrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 1999Proud partner and supporter since 1999. Through the First Tee College Scholarship Program, provides need and merit-based scholarships up to $5,000 to selected alumni, plus professional development workshops, internship placement assistance, and adult mentors.
• The Toro CompanytrusteeGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 1998Proud supporter since 1998 providing ongoing support of participant programming through national and local initiatives, plus equipment and irrigation for facility maintenance. Over 23 years has supported chapter grants, STEM Links Field trips, and COVID relief assistance.
• Masters Tournamentfounding trusteeStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1997Founding trustee partner from inception in 1997, representing one of the five original founding partners (LPGA, Masters Tournament, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, USGA) that created First Tee to make golf affordable and accessible for all kids.
• PGA TOURfounding trusteeStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1997Founding trustee partner from inception in 1997. PGA TOUR provides headquarters location, executive leadership, and ongoing support including tournament charity partnerships.
• PGA of Americafounding trusteeStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1997Founding trustee partner from inception in 1997, one of the five original founding organizations that established First Tee.
• LPGAfounding trusteeStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1997Founding trustee partner from inception in 1997, one of the five original founding organizations that established First Tee.
• USGAfounding trusteeStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1997Founding trustee partner from inception in 1997, one of the five original founding organizations that established First Tee.

Scale indicators12 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• PGA Jr. League: PGA of America-operated youth golf team league for kids 13 and under, using a popular scramble format. Directly comparable as a youth-golf participation pathway competing for the same families and participants.
• LPGA-USGA Girls Golf: LPGA Foundation program introducing girls to golf through non-competitive, social formats. Closely comparable as a sister-organization youth golf program sharing two of First Tee's five founding trustees.
• Drive, Chip & Putt: Joint PGA/Augusta National/USGA national junior skills competition culminating at Augusta National. Comparable as a high-visibility youth-golf pathway sharing overlapping governance with First Tee's founding partners.
• Tiger Woods Foundation / TGR Foundation: TGR Foundation runs STEM and college-access programs and operates TGR Learning Lab facilities, with deep ties to elite junior golf. Comparable as a golf-branded youth development organization with high-profile founder capital.

Emerging players

• Youth on Course: Nonprofit providing subsidized junior golf rounds at participating courses for members typically $5 or less. Comparable as a nonprofit focused on making golf accessible and affordable for youth.
• National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS): Nonprofit focused on youth sports coach education, safety, and program quality across multiple sports. Comparable as a youth-sports support organization prioritizing coach training and participant outcomes.
• Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA): Nonprofit providing coach and parent training to develop 'Better Athletes, Better People' through character-building youth sports. Comparable as a research-informed character-through-sports organization.
• Golf in Schools: Industry initiative bringing golf curriculum into K-12 physical education. Comparable as a parallel school-based golf delivery channel competing for the same school district partnerships First Tee targets.

Broad incumbents

• Boys & Girls Clubs of America: Large national youth development nonprofit operating a network of club facilities offering programs including sports, character, and leadership. Comparable as a scaled youth-development platform, though broader than golf.
• YMCA of the USA: National nonprofit offering youth sports, swim, and character-building programs through a federated local-branch model. Comparable as a federated youth-development organization with broad community programming.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/thefirsttee
• YouTubeyoutube.com/user/TheFirsttee
• Facebookfacebook.com/FirstTee
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/firsttee
• Instagraminstagram.com/thefirsttee

Compliance2 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Subsidiaries1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds1 record

Investors2 records

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M&A

Investments

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Frequently asked questions about The First Tee