Scotts® Field Refurbishment Program Application
In 2023, the Scotts® Field Refurbishment Program will provide grants of products and services, with a value up to $50,000, to three youth-serving organizations that are in need of renovations to existing ballfields. A blue ribbon panel of judges will determine the final grantees. In addition to the grant, Scotts will host special celebrations for the winning communities. Applications will be accepted from January 17, 2023 – February 28, 2023, with project work to take place in Spring & Summer 2023.
Program Background
The Scotts® Field Refurbishment Program is a major diamond and green space renovation initiative that has provided 35 youth-focused baseball and softball fields across the country with significant upgrades. Scotts, the Official Lawn Care Company of Major League Baseball, enters its eighth season as an official partner of the “PLAY BALL” initiative. Together, MLB and Scotts are encouraging youth and communities to get outside and enjoy activities, like baseball and softball.
Grant Award Packages
Each refurbishment will include one (1) infield makeover that incorporates a new infield with sod and infield dirt. Other enhancements may include:
- New pitcher’s mound
- New home plate and batter’s boxes
- New bases and anchors
CRITERIA AND REQUIREMENTS
Grant applications will be evaluated on the following criteria:
- The ability of the grant to increase youth participation and improve the quality of youth baseball and softball programming
- The ability of the grant to enhance the lives of underserved children
- The ability of the grant to improve the local community
- The organization’s ability to leverage the grant to generate more support for the field and programming
Application Requirements:
- Online application submission
- The following documents must be submitted as part of the application packet no later than February 28, 2023 (11:59 p.m. ET):
- Written confirmation of nonprofit or tax-exempt status from the appropriate governmental agency (e.g., IRS determination letter). Note that 501(c)(3) organizations and also tax-exempt organizations (i.e. municipalities, school districts) are eligible to apply.
- List and description of key partnerships
- A copy of your organization’s previous fiscal year’s organizational budget
- Photo(s) of field’s current condition (optional)
Incomplete applications will not be eligible for consideration. Applicants will be notified by e-mail as to the status of their proposal.
2023 Scotts® Field Refurbishment Program Calendar:
January 17 – February 18, 2023: Applications Accepted
March 1 – April 28, 2023: Grant Decisions
Week of May 1, 2023: Grant Awards Announcement
Spring & Summer 2023: Project Implementation
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
