Corporation for Public Broadcasting
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) is a private, nonprofit corporation authorized by Congress in 1967 to manage federal investments in public media, providing funding to over 1,500 local public television and radio stations.
CPB Services
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) provides a wide range of services that support public media. These include funding for over 1,500 local public television and radio stations, research-based educational resources for young learners, and local news. CPB also funds essential infrastructure for the emergency alert system through the Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) and other public safety measures. Additionally, CPB supports the transition to NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) and the Digital Transformation Program to enhance the digital capabilities of public media organizations.
CPB Funding Initiatives
CPB is the largest single source of funding for public radio, television, and online services. It does not produce or distribute programs but provides financial support for content development, community services, and local station needs. Ninety-five percent of its federal appropriation goes directly to these areas. CPB's funding priorities include Digital, Diversity, and Dialogue, focusing on digital innovation, diverse community content, and audience engagement. CPB also provides Community Service Grants to significant public service programming stations and funds initiatives like the Independent Television Service (ITVS) and the National Multicultural Alliance.
CPB Educational Initiatives
CPB's American Graduate initiative aims to enhance education and career readiness. The program helps local stations develop educational resources and services that support young learners and prepare them for future careers. CPB also funds researched-based educational content tailored for diverse audiences, focusing on underserved communities. Public media stations use CPB support to create informative and engaging educational resources that fulfill CPB's mission to inform, educate, and enrich the public.
CPB Public Safety Support
CPB is committed to supporting public safety through partnerships and funding initiatives. The Next Generation Warning System (NGWS), funded with $96 million from FEMA, enhances emergency alert capabilities for public media stations. CPB's funding also aids local stations in collaborating with governments and first responders to ensure effective emergency communication. Additionally, CPB’s NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) initiative focuses on improving broadcast standards to offer better interactive features and a more robust emergency alert system.
CPB Community Engagement
CPB supports numerous initiatives to foster community engagement. The Civic Spark initiative amplifies stories of individuals making significant contributions to their communities. CPB also funds the Public Media Military and Veterans Projects, showcasing service members' and veterans' contributions through various content and community events. By supporting these and other community-focused projects, CPB ensures that public media remains a vital resource for informing, educating, and connecting communities.