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Billions in federal and state infrastructure funds are up for grabs. But in today’s ultra-competitive environment, it’s not always the largest or most established transit systems that win, it’s the ones that can prove their impact with data.
Agencies that turn performance metrics into clear, persuasive stories are the ones turning proposals into awards.
The New Funding Reality
From the Federal Transit Administration’s Low-No Program to regional climate and mobility grants, funding opportunities have never been greater or more competitive.
Grant reviewers are no longer swayed by promises alone. They want to see measurable results: equity improvements, emissions reductions, reliability gains, and ridership growth backed by verifiable data.
That means agencies must do more than collect information. They must turn it into evidence of impact.
Why Data Storytelling Wins Grants
Data storytelling bridges the gap between intent and evidence. Numbers on a page mean little until they’re framed in a way that highlights community benefit and operational value.
Take a bus network redesign, for example. Saying it will “serve more riders” is a start. Showing that it will bring 15,000 additional residents, 40% from low-income neighborhoods, within a 10-minute walk of service? That’s compelling.
In recent years, even mid-sized agencies have leveraged this kind of data-driven storytelling to secure multimillion-dollar grants. It’s not just about having data, it’s about communicating what it means.
Build Credibility Through Clarity
Funders trust agencies that can show, not just tell. When you track and analyze data transparently, from on-time performance to energy use, you signal operational discipline and readiness to deliver results.
The best part? Most agencies already have the data they need. The challenge is organization, interpretation, and presentation. These are the steps that separate strong applications from successful ones.
How TransTrack Helps Agencies Stay Competitive
TransTrack empowers transit leaders to unlock the full value of their data, turning raw information into insights that inspire confidence and secure funding.
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ViewPoint lets agencies visualize performance metrics historically and in real time, helping teams communicate progress and outcomes to funders and stakeholders alike.
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TransTrack Manager simplifies National Transit Database (NTD) reporting and ensures your data aligns with funding priorities, saving staff time while improving accuracy.
When you can clearly show how every dollar delivers measurable impact, you’re not just compliant, you’re competitive.
Invest in Your Storytelling Strategy
Billions of dollars in competitive grants are waiting to be awarded, but only to the agencies that can prove their value with precision and clarity.
TransTrack helps you turn your data into dollars by giving your team the tools to visualize, validate, and communicate your impact.
Want to see how your data could strengthen your next funding proposal? Book a conversation with our team!