Funding Amounts: Grants for field refurbishment projects are generally gifted in amounts under $10,000. Fields requiring funding above $10,000 should apply through the “Signature Grant” application once the program has launched for 2023. Uniform and equipment needs are evaluated and fulfilled on a case-by-case basis based on information provided in the application. Pirates Charities and Highmark aim to award financial and in-kind support to as many organization as possible each season.
Eligible Field Projects: Projects include the upgrading of essential field components, such as new sod, infield, fencing, dugouts and irrigation systems are perfect for the Fields for Kids program – this is exactly the type of support we are here to provide. Additionally, upgrades to the overall facility to include lights, bleachers, batting cages, scoreboards and concession stands are considered on a case-by-case basis. Items such as the purchase of land, parking lots, press boxes and restrooms are not able to be covered by the program, but the hope is that the Fields for Kids program can support the areas of your project listed above so that additional funds raised by the organization can cover items the program does not.
Matching Contributions: Organizations applying for financial support for field projects are asked to provide matching support (secured through financial means, in-kind contributions or labor) for the field project.
Frequency: Organizations are limited to receiving one Fields for Kids grant each calendar year (January-December).
Timing: Grants will be distributed three times in 2023 – April, June and August. Once an organization has received funding, the hope is that organization is able to complete their field project within one calendar year.
Project Reporting: Organizations awarded a field grant will be asked to submit a project report before they are eligible to apply again.
*Eligible counties in the Pittsburgh Pirates market area include:
In Pennsylvania: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Green, Indiana, Lawrence, Mercer, Washington, Westmoreland
In Ohio: Belmont, Columbiana, Jefferson
In West Virginia: Brooke, Hancock, Marshall, Monongalia, Ohio
