image sourced from original article at Major liberal philanthropic organizations, including the Knight, MacArthur, and Ford Foundations, have pledged $50 million to support NPR and PBS member stations following significant federal funding cuts enacted by President Donald Trump. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which has historically provided substantial federal support to these public media outlets, saw its funding reduced by $1.1 billion over two years, prompting layoffs and potential shutdowns at NPR and PBS.
The newly established Public Media Bridge Fund has already secured nearly $27 million from these groups, with the Knight Foundation alone committing $10 million. The cuts have forced NPR to reduce its budget by $8 million and PBS by 21 percent, intensifying financial strain amid ongoing scrutiny over alleged political bias in their coverage.
Many of the philanthropic organizations involved have faced criticism for supporting controversial progressive causes. Their backing comes as public broadcasters grapple with the loss of federal funding and seek alternative sources to maintain operations.
