Bid leader Ivan Slavich has teamed up with the Canberra Times to launch a 20,000 Canberra A-League Pledge campaign.

As well as demanding proof of a sound financial structure, the FFA wants any would-be A-League franchise to show that the community would back their team.

Slavich said: "At our recent meeting in November with the FFA (Football Federation Australia) we were asked to show we have at least 10,000 supporters from Canberra and our surrounding regions.

"We think we can do better than that, we're aiming for 20,000."

Canberra Times Editor Peter Frey and Slavich joined forces to launch the campaign today.

"It's a critical component to our bid and a great chance for all supporters of the game across Canberra and the region to show their support," said Slavich.

"It's free to sign-up, but it shows a willingness of the community to back the team.

"A Canberra A-League team will provide many opportunities for fans, the business community and of course our junior players.

"We are up against some strong opposition for the 12th place but we are confident if we keep on ticking all the criteria required that we will win the bid."

He added: "I'd encourage fans of Canberra, and of the region to take the forms, which can be downloaded from our website, to your workplace, clubs, shopping centres and schools. Everyone can help.

"We want to see anyone who would love to go to a football game in the future signing-up. We've had a great response so far and I feel very sure we will reach our target."

Anyone who pledges through the newspaper will go into the draw to win one of five free coaching clinics for the winner and a mate, with Socceroo Ned Zelic, a Canberra United supporters pack and a signed A-League ball.

Canberra are battling against bids from several other groups anxious for an A-League spot including Melbourne, western Sydney, South Coast and Tasmania.

Slavich and his bid team argue that it is ridiculous that the country's capital is not represented in the A-League and yet New Zealand can boast just that.