Public media doesn’t just inform — it inspires. It doesn’t just report — it responds. It doesn’t just survive — it redefines.
Public media has been strong and bold. SDPB is always there for you. It is part of the landscape of South Dakota. This cut isn’t about money.
The loss of federal funds is a seismic shift for SDPB, no doubt. This cut will force a change in SDPB’s operations
With the $2.3 million annual cut in federal funds, what comes next?
Unfortunately, local programming will bear the burden of the cut as it is the most “discretionary” thing that we do.
Imagine a South Dakota without SDPB. No local, engaging, conversations lead by Lori Walsh on “In the Moment.” Quieter, lonely nights without “Jazz Nightly” and Karl Gehrke. Limited coverage and accountability of the State Legislature. Preschool aged children not equipped to navigate the transition to kindergarten. Missed opportunities of extended family watching their grandkids, nieces, nephews participate in their high school sport or activity.
South Dakota without SDPB is less connected.
Here’s the reality:
SDPB will see a reduction in staff. 15-20 people could lose their jobs. This dramatic reduction would have a devastating effect on local programming. . SDPB layoffs, without donor support, will begin as soon as October 31.
SDPB’s Plan to Close a $2.3 million Gap
SDPB is not backing down.
We are learning from the past as we plan for the future. We are remaining hopeful in a difficult situation. The actions we take every day are critical. Both SDPB’s actions and yours as a supporter.
There are five primary levers that SDPB and Friends can pull to alter the path of the rescission. All five of them must be pulled in concert for the plan to find success. Each action taken reduces the $2.3 million gap, and staves off a cut in local programming.
The first lever come from the National organization, SDPB expects a reduction in NPR and PBS dues that will help close the gap.
The second lever is moving the operations of SD.Net to the Network Operations Center. This should not affect the live streaming of the legislature and boards and commissions meetings.
The third lever is one your helped create. The Friends of SDPB Board of Directors is prepared to loan ourselves principal funds from the endowment to get through this unique situation.
These actions combined result is $1.3 million in potential funds. This puts Friends of SDPB in a position of needing to fundraise an additional $1 million, between now and October 31 to avoid local programming changes.
to Fill
SDPB Operational Changes ($200,000) $1,900,000
State & Legislative Support ($400,000) $1,500,000
Loan from Friends Endowment ($500,000) $1,000,000
Fundraising Need ($1,000,000) $0
Additional Cuts from SDPB TBD
Additional Cuts from Friends of SDPB TBD
$1 Million Campaign Scale of Gifts
This is more than a campaign. It’s a call to preserve an essential public service that belongs to all South Dakotans. Your gift will make a tremendous difference.
SDPB is committed to doing everything possible to avoid these cuts. You can be part of the solution. Make your gift today.
