As public radio stations continue navigating the fallout from this year’s federal funding rescission, the network is stepping up with a seven-figure gift to the Public Media Bridge Fund, to be used for grants for member organizations facing the steepest financial risk.
NPR is directing a $1 million restricted gift to the Public Media Bridge Fund, which launched in 2025 as a philanthropic response to Congress eliminating federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, to support NPR Member organizations and prevent at-risk stations from closing and achieve sustainability.
Stations interested in applying can learn more about the Bridge Fund’s grant programs, guidelines, and eligibility requirements on the Station Resources page of the Fund’s website. New sustainability programs are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
NPR Chief Operating Officer Ryan Merkley said, “NPR shares in the goals of the Public Media Bridge Fund and believes deeply in its approach. By combining direct funding with essential advisory support and strategic consulting, this partnership will help the NPR Network navigate the current economic climate and transition toward more sustainable operating models for the future.”
Public Media Bridge Fund Executive Director Erik Langner said, “We are grateful for NPR’s partnership in this work. We look forward to working with NPR Member organizations to help them identify and implement targeted sustainability strategies and secure local public media service across the country.”
