Black Public Radio Network Officially Launches

RADIO ONLINE | Sunday, June 28, 2026 | 6:05pm CT

Black Public Radio Network

Fifteen public radio stations from across the U.S. have joined forces to launch the Black Public Radio Network (BPRN), a new national coalition created to strengthen the long-term sustainability, growth and impact of Black public radio.

Founded by Ernest Walker, President of BPRN and General Manager of KTSU/Houston, the network brings together 12 stations licensed to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), along with WBGO/New York, 104.7 The Drop/Denver and HYFIN/Milwaukee.

BPRN was established to help member stations address financial challenges facing public media by expanding revenue opportunities, increasing national visibility, fostering innovation and building a stronger collaborative infrastructure.

"The launch of the Black Public Radio Network represents a transformative moment for public media and for the communities our stations serve," Walker said. "For decades, Black public radio stations have served as trusted cultural anchors, storytellers and community connectors. BPRN is about bringing our collective strength together to create a sustainable future, expand opportunity and ensure our voices continue to be heard and valued on a national level."

The network has entered a six-month strategic planning phase to develop its operational framework, national revenue strategy and long-term growth plan. As part of that effort, BPRN has retained Paragon as its consulting partner, with VuHaus Group supporting the development of national sponsorship sales opportunities.

Joining the planning effort are veteran public media executives Jacquie Gales Webb, former Vice President of Radio at the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and Nikki Swarn, former General Manager of KUVO/THE DROP Denver.

Wendy Williams, General Manager of WCLK/Atlanta, said the network creates new opportunities for growth, visibility and sustainability while honoring the cultural significance of the audiences its stations serve. WNSB/Norfolk General Manager Maynard Scales added that the collaboration will enable member stations to share content, grow audiences and develop new partnerships with national brands.