Aloha Friends of PBS Hawai‘i,
The federal government has taken action to rescind future funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. While this marks a historic vote in public media support, I want to speak directly to you, our community of donors, foundations, and supporters, who have long been the backbone of PBS Hawai‘i.
We want to reassure our community: PBS Hawai‘i is not going anywhere.
We’ve seen this moment on the horizon, and because of your belief in our mission, we’ve been preparing for several years, not just to survive change, but to move forward. With your support, we’ve taken bold steps to diversify our funding, strengthen our infrastructure, and evolve as a modern, community-focused multimedia organization.
This moment calls us to rise with intention and clarity, not retreat.
We know that for many of our loyal viewers and supporters, the first question is: “Will I still be able to watch my favorite PBS shows?”
While the full impact of this funding shift is still unfolding, please know that this is a top priority for us. We are working closely with other PBS stations to support continued access to the trusted programming you enjoy and rely on. We’ll share an update as we learn more and work toward solutions.
What hasn’t changed and won’t, is our deep commitment to serving Hawai‘i. For over 60 years, PBS Hawai‘i has been a trusted voice and a vital gathering place, sharing stories that reflect the people, culture, and perspectives unique to our islands. That work continues with commitment and resilience.
Although federal funding played a role in our operations, it was one piece of a broader revenue base that includes generous support from viewers, members, foundations, and local businesses. Thanks to your support and months of proactive planning, we’ve diversified our funding sources to help weather moments like this and move beyond them.
More than two years ago, we launched a bold new strategic plan to strengthen our long-term sustainability. That plan focuses on accessibility, outreach, digital innovation, and developing new pathways for revenue.
We've since executed this plan with intention and discipline. We restructured the organization to better leverage our team's skills and talents, conducted a thorough expense analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities, and made tough but necessary decisions by distinguishing between “nice-to-haves” and “need-to-haves.”
We also expanded our business development team, bringing in more talent to strengthen partnerships and generate new revenue. Our philanthropic strategy became more targeted and assertive, with renewed efforts to engage foundations aligned with our mission.
At the same time, we’ve deepened relationships with our loyal supporters, sustainers, major donors, and our broader community, through improved communication and stewardship.
Our commitment to locally produced content has grown significantly, with an enhanced digital presence and expanded civic engagement programming, including initiatives like KÄ€KOU and INSIGHTS.
We’re also encouraged by continued bipartisan recognition of public broadcasting’s value in emergency preparedness. The recent inclusion of $40 million in the FY2026 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill for the Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) reaffirms the essential role public television plays in keeping communities safe and informed.
PBS Hawai‘i received competitive funding through NGWS to replace our KMEB Maui transmitter at ‘Ulupalakua Ranch. The new system was completed in early June and is fully operational, ensuring that residents of Maui and Hawai‘i counties have reliable, over-the-air access to PBS Hawai‘i programming and critical emergency alerts.
We know change can bring much uncertainty, but it also brings great opportunities. Adapting to change makes us stronger and more grounded in our purpose.
At PBS Hawai‘i, we see this as a moment to recommit to what matters most: serving our community with trusted, inclusive, and high-quality programming that informs, educates, and uplifts. It’s a reminder of why we do this work. And with your continued partnership, we will move forward with courage, creativity, and intent.
To our viewers, supporters, and partners, mahalo nui loa for your trust, your generosity, and your belief in the power of public media. Together, we will continue to serve with integrity, intention, and aloha.
With respect,
Ron Mizutani
President and CEO |
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