Pirates, PNC announce sixth year of Small Business Support Program

The Pittsburgh Pirates and PNC Bank are proud to announce that the Going to Bat for Small Business Program, presented by PNC, will return for a sixth consecutive year. The program takes place during baseball season and aims to provide resources and exposure to six local businesses making a positive impact on the community.

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 live reads 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 premium suite night and more.

¡±It¡¯s inspiring to hear from the dozens of local entrepreneurs about the impact this program has had on their bottom lines,¡± said Lou Cestello, PNC regional president for Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania. ¡°Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and PNC is proud to team up with the Pirates for our sixth season helping move these organizations¡ªand the Pittsburgh community¡ªforward.¡±

As in previous years, the 2025 winners will be selected by a special committee, which includes past winners, local area chamber of commerce personnel, media members and community organizations.

¡°We are so proud, that through our partnership with PNC Bank and their continual support, this innovative program is back for a sixth year,¡± said Pirates Chairman, Bob Nutting. ¡°It is a privilege to be able to use our platform at the Pirates to foster economic growth through support of small businesses in our region that in turn work to strengthen the fabric of our community.¡±

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 20. 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.