Corporation for Public Broadcasting

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) is a private, nonprofit corporation authorized by Congress through the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967. CPB serves as the steward of the federal government’s investment in public media, providing essential funding support to more than 1,500 local public television and radio stations across the United States. As the largest single source of funding for public radio, television, and related online and mobile services, CPB does not produce or distribute programs, nor does it own, control, oversee, or operate any broadcast stations. Instead, it allocates 95% of its federal appropriation directly to local public media stations, content development, community services, and other system needs. CPB receives a two-year advance appropriation from Congress to insulate content from political pressure and enable advance planning. Its funding priorities include Digital, Diversity, and Dialogue, supporting innovation on digital platforms, content for diverse communities, and services that foster engagement. CPB’s initiatives include the American Graduate initiative to advance education and career readiness, the Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) to expand emergency alerting capabilities, and the Digital Transformation Program to help public media organizations adapt to a digital-first, audience-centric approach. CPB also funds the Independent Television Service (ITVS), the National Multicultural Alliance, and other organizations that support independent producers. Additionally, CPB provides Community Service Grants to noncommercial public television and radio stations offering significant public service programming. CPB’s NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) initiative supports the transition to the new broadcast standard, enhancing interactive features and emergency alerts. The Civic Spark initiative aims to amplify stories of Americans making a difference in their communities. CPB supports public media’s role in emergency services through partnerships with local governments and first responders. Its funding supports diverse programs and services that inform, educate, and enrich the public, with a focus on underserved audiences. CPB’s Public Media Military and Veterans Projects showcase the contributions of service members and veterans through content and community engagement events. Additionally, CPB’s funding for rural stations helps ensure universal access to public media’s educational programming and public services.