The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), the federal nonprofit that for nearly six decades helped fund the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), National Public Radio (NPR) and more than 1,500 local public media stations, has officially dissolved after Congress cut more than $1.1 billion in federal support.
The board of the CPB voted to shut down the organization on Jan. 5, 2026, after its federal funding was rescinded as part of a broad budget package and policy changes initiated by the Trump administration.
Created by the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967, CPB served as the middleman for distributing federal dollars to local public TV and radio stations across the country. With the funding gone, the board determined it could not continue in operation and chose dissolution rather than remaining a defunded organization vulnerable to political attacks.
For Hoosiers who watch, listen to or rely on PBS-affiliated stations like WTIU in Bloomington or WFYI in Indianapolis, the shutdown could have noticeable effects on programming and services. PBS typically received roughly 15 percent of its overall revenue from CPB grants, a portion that helps underwrite local operations and allows stations to offer commercial-free news, cultural content, documentaries, children’s programming and educational services.
Without federal support, many local stations will need to make tough financial decisions. Smaller or rural stations in Indiana could face staffing reductions, cuts to locally produced shows, reductions in national programming or even the possibility of closing entirely if alternative funding sources cannot be secured. Smaller stations often depend on pooled CPB resources for critical services like emergency alert systems, music licensing, technical infrastructure and broadcast interconnection — costs that are difficult to absorb without federal backing.
Beyond entertainment and culture, public stations play a role in community information during severe weather and crises. In areas with limited broadband access or fewer commercial media options, public broadcasting can be a key source for news and safety alerts.
The impact comes on top of previous state funding cuts that eliminated millions in support for Indiana public media. Combined federal and state losses have forced stations like WFYI Public Media to confront a multi-million-dollar shortfall, raising concerns about their ability to maintain current levels of local journalism, educational outreach and community programming.
In response, WFYI has ramped up its fundraising efforts, launching campaigns that urge Hoosiers to donate and help sustain operations. The station has emphasized that community support is now more critical than ever as it works to replace funding once provided by CPB. WFYI has pointed listeners and viewers to its membership and donation programs, noting that contributions directly support local reporting, children’s education initiatives and public service programming.
However, even with increased member support, many leaders warn that replacing the financial and operational role once played by CPB could be an uphill battle.
For families, educators and regular viewers in Indiana, the changes mean that familiar PBS shows like Sesame Street, NOVA and American Experience may still be available, but the breadth of local programming and services that have long defined public broadcasting could shrink without sustainable funding.
As the public media landscape adjusts to this new reality, Hoosiers who value PBS and other public media services may see the role of community support and private funding become even more central to keeping these outlets on the air.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
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