CPB Provides $7.3 Million in Grants for Local Journalism

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) has announced the continuation of its commitment to local journalism by awarding more than $7.3 million in grants for fiscal year 2024. This includes $2.65 million aimed at bolstering state government coverage across Colorado, Florida, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York and North Carolina. These grants are part of a broader initiative to enhance public media's role in providing reliable, fact-based reporting on local issues, especially in an era where misinformation is rampant.

CPB President and CEO Patricia Harrison emphasized the importance of local journalism, noting that public media outlets are deeply connected to their communities and play a crucial role in informing the public on issues of civic importance. "The growth of local journalism is essential to the civic health of our nation," said Harrison. She highlighted the trust Americans place in public media's integrity, particularly during times of growing misinformation.

CPB's support contributes to the largest nonprofit news system in the U.S., with more than 4,400 local journalists across the country. According to a 2024 Pew Research survey, public trust in local news sources remains high, transcending political divides.

This new round of grants will increase year-round coverage of state governments, focusing on legislative sessions and how state policies impact citizens. For instance, WUNC in North Carolina will use its $542,041 grant to add reporters and editors for comprehensive state government reporting, while KUNC in Colorado will lead the creation of the "Colorado Capitol News Alliance" to provide full-time coverage of the state's government.

Additional support has been given to regional journalism collaborations that serve remote areas, including the Gulf States Newsroom, the Mountain West News Bureau, and the Alaska Desk. These initiatives aim to provide vital local reporting in areas where news coverage is often scarce, focusing on critical topics like healthcare, criminal justice, land management and Native issues.

CPB's commitment to local journalism reflects its ongoing effort to ensure that Americans have access to trustworthy news that empowers them to make informed decisions. This year's funding also includes support for local election coverage, with initiatives like America Amplified helping public media stations provide essential voter information across all 50 states.