Four years after it first came to fruition, Black Public Radio Network has formally launched, creating a platform comprised of 15 radio stations led by the GM of Texas Southern University’s KTSU-FM in Houston.
As Ernest Walker tells Current, the Black Public Radio Network was created to “ensure the long-term sustainability, relevance, and growth of public radio stations that serve Black audiences and communities across the country.”
“The launch of the Black Public Radio Network represents a transformative moment for public media and for the communities our stations serve,” Walker said. “For decades, Black public radio stations have served as trusted cultural anchors, storytellers, and community connectors. BPRN is about bringing our collective strength together to create a sustainable future, expand opportunity, and ensure our voices continue to be heard and valued on a national level.”
Plans involve the build-out of national underwriting and sponsorship opportunities; VuHaus Group is being tasked with supporting national sponsorship sales.
Paragon has also sign a six-month agreement to serve as BPRN’s consulting partner, offering research and other strategic guidance.
The founding stations are:
- KTSU in Houston
- KUVO “The Drop” in Denver
- WBGO in Newark, N.J.
- KPVU in Prairie View, Texas
- WCLK in Atlanta
- WNCU in Durham, N.C.
- WEAA in Baltimore
- HYFIN in Milwaukee
- WNSB in Norfolk, Va.
- WJAB in Huntsville, Ala.
- KJLU in Jefferson City, Mo.
- WRVS in Elizabeth City, N.C.
- WSSB in Orangeburg, S.C.
- WURC in Holly Springs, Miss.
- WESM in Salisbury, Md.
