Pirates, PNC Bank announce fifth year of Small Business Support Program 

The Pittsburgh Pirates and PNC Bank are excited to announce that the Going to Bat for Small Business Program, which is presented by PNC, will make a triumphant return for its fifth consecutive year. The program shines a spotlight on six local businesses, each making a positive impact on the community, for every month of the baseball season.

The Pirates and PNC Bank will award each of the winners with a marketing package valued up to $100,000, and a $5,000 grant. As part of the package, the Pirates will leverage their unique public platform to help these businesses boost brand awareness. This will include in-broadcast drop-ins by Pirates broadcasters, 30-second television and radio commercials produced by the Pirates, social media promotion with logo inclusion on graphics, in-park digital signage, a luxury suite night and more.

“It has been heartwarming to see Pittsburgh rally around the dozens of small businesses that have gone through this program,” said Lou Cestello, PNC regional president for Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania. “PNC is proud to team up with the Pirates for our fifth season helping local businesses move their companies—and our community—forward.”

The 2024 winners will be selected by a special committee, which includes past winners, local area chamber of commerce personnel, media members and community organizations.

“Small businesses are vital to our city. We take pride in collaborating with PNC Bank to offer essential resources, drive awareness and foster growth within our small business community,” said Pirates President Travis Williams. “We extend our gratitude to PNC for their continued commitment to this initiative, now in it’s fifth year. Their steadfast support remains integral to propelling entrepreneurship forward in the Pittsburgh region.”

Small businesses located in Allegheny County and the immediate surrounding counties are invited to nominate themselves at pirates.com/smallbusiness. The nomination period is open and concludes February 18. Following this period, the selection committee will collaborate to choose six local business owners who exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship.

For more information on the program, including how to nominate your business and how fans can get involved, please visit pirates.com/smallbusiness.