West Virginia Public Broadcasting is facing potential funding challenges, but its leaders are confident the organization will not only survive — it will grow stronger.
At a recent meeting in Charleston, William H. File III, chairman of the state Educational Broadcasting Commission, reassured the public that the station is prepared for what lies ahead.
“I know we normally hear all the negatives… but West Virginia Public Broadcasting is going to survive. And not just survive; it’s going to thrive,” File said after being re-elected to his role.
The concern comes after former President Donald Trump submitted a formal request to Congress this week asking to take back more than $1.1 billion in funds already approved for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). If Congress agrees, CPB’s remaining budget would be slashed to just $30 million — down from over a billion dollars.
This move is part of a larger $9.4 billion federal rescission package that also cuts foreign aid and related agency budgets. It follows Trump’s May 1 executive order directing CPB to end all funding to NPR and PBS, both of which he claims are politically biased.
In response, NPR and three of its member stations have filed a federal lawsuit calling the order unconstitutional. Meanwhile, CPB is planning a public campaign in Republican-led states to persuade lawmakers — including U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia — to support continued public broadcasting funding.
Michael Farrell III, vice chairman of the Educational Broadcasting Commission, said, “This is a political message to her from the people of the State of West Virginia. We’re not fearful — we’re concerned that people might misunderstand what’s really happening.”
West Virginia Public Broadcasting relies on federal money for nearly 19% of its $10.2 million budget for fiscal year 2024. That includes $1.9 million from federal grants and CPB support. So far, $1.6 million of that has been received.
“This funding is vital,” said WVPB Executive Director Eddie Isom. “We use that money to help pay for our programming. We really can’t function without it, or without support from the state and private donors.”
In addition to federal funding, WVPB received $4.5 million (about 44.5% of its budget) from private donors and foundation grants.
Another $3.7 million came from the state’s general fund — though that amount is set to drop in fiscal year 2026. Lawmakers recently passed a budget that reduces WVPB’s state funding by 10.7%, down to $3.9 million. That change takes effect July 1.
To manage the cut, WVPB is adjusting internally — by not filling a vacant position, shifting some roles to privately funded positions, and possibly selling an underused production facility in Morgantown.
Even amid these financial concerns, WVPB continues to grow its audience and expand its mission. Its recent spring fund drive raised $42,500, attracted 71 new members, and brought back 49 lapsed donors. In total, 1,365 new members joined during this fiscal year.
Popular programs like Mountain Stage — which showcases Americana and roots music — are now being picked up by more stations across the country.
WVPB’s award-winning news coverage and the Us and Them podcast, which explores America’s political divides, continue to earn praise. The education team also remains active, bringing PBS favorites like Daniel Tiger into schools and distributing free books to students across the state.
Michael Farrell, who also leads the West Virginia Public Broadcasting Foundation, says the organization’s track record makes it a smart choice for grant funding.
“We have credibility in the marketplace,” he said. “The work we do brings results. Broadcasting is a big part of it, but there’s so much more. That’s what brings people back to support us again and again.”
West Virginia Public Broadcasting is staying focused on its mission. Despite looming federal cuts, its leadership, supporters, and community partners are determined to make sure public media in West Virginia remains strong — and keeps growing.
