NYPR Launches Free Program For At-Risk Public Radio Stations.

In response to unprecedented threats facing public broadcasting, New York Public Radio (NYPR), home of WNYC and WQXR, has announced the Station-to-Station Programming Project, an initiative designed to provide critically acclaimed programs to financially at-risk public radio stations at no cost.

The program, effective Oct. 1, will make NYPR’s nationally syndicated lineup, including “Radiolab,” “On the Media,” “The New Yorker Radio Hour,” and “Terrestrials,” as well as independently produced shows distributed by NYPR such as “Freakonomics Radio,” “Science Friday,” and “Today, Explained,” available to stations struggling to sustain operations. Participating stations include those receiving 10% or more of their budgets from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), as well as other non-commercial educational broadcasters facing financial challenges.

The initiative comes amid a $9.4 billion CPB rescission package that threatens funding for more than 1,500 public radio and television stations nationwide. By waiving distribution fees, NYPR aims to free up resources for local reporting and programming.

“Local news is essential to protecting our democracy, and in this moment, we want to do our part to help ensure that all Americans continue to have access to this critical public resource,” LaFontaine E. Oliver, NYPR President & CEO, said in a release. “This project is a meaningful way to provide peer-to-peer support.”

Independent producers distributing through NYPR have joined the effort. “Freakonomics Radio” host Stephen Dubner said, “This is what it looks like to be a leader in tough times,” while “Science Friday” founder Ira Flatow added, “We will not waver in our mission…to ensure all Americans have access to the science that helps them make the best health, environmental, and tech decisions for themselves and their communities.”

The Station-to-Station Programming Project is part of NYPR’s broader “Stand Together” campaign, which seeks to protect public media from the full impact of funding cuts. NYPR has a history of station-friendly practices, including making programming affordable and accessible, and the new initiative extends that commitment to public radio nationwide.

Emily Botein, Vice President of WNYC Studios, added, “NYPR isn’t only a producer or a distributor, we’re also home to WNYC and WQXR, stations deeply woven into the fabric of New York City. We want to keep that bond strong for our friends and peers across the country, with programming that informs, engages, entertains, and inspires.”