Acquisitions
License your completed program for broadcast and digital release
Producing with PBS North Carolina
A Trusted Partner and Platform for Independent Producers
PBS North Carolina is the third-largest PBS affiliate in the country, reaching over 1.8 million viewers every month across our broadcast network. With 67% of American households tuning in to PBS and our consistent ranking as the most trusted media brand in the nation for more than 20 years, we offer film and TV producers a platform grounded in credibility and public service.
Our distribution model gives you the flexibility to share your work widely, while our long-term promotional strategies ensure your project receives sustained visibility, not just a single moment in the spotlight. When you work with us, you're not just a submission in the queue—you’re a partner in purpose.
“PBS NC transformed my career as a television and documentary film producer. The team working with independent producers provides invaluable insight and is really a gateway to the public broadcasting world. Any producer emerging or veteran will benefit from partnering with this core group of mission-driven media professionals.”
- Nick Price, Series Producer, Reel South
Powerful Partnerships
Whether you're pitching a finished piece or developing a new one, there are multiple ways to collaborate with PBS North Carolina.
Presentations
Collaborate to finish, distribute and market your program
Co-Productions
Partner closely with us on all phases of development, production and distribution
The Stories We Amplify
We’re looking for compelling, relevant and thought-provoking content that resonates with our diverse North Carolina audience.
Topics We Are Seeking:
- Arts & culture
- Cooking & Southern foodways
- History
- Nature & environment
- Science
- Travel
We Do Not Accept:
- Promotional/commercial content
- Advocacy pieces
- Religious programming
Impressive Reach
A Trusted Brand
Ranked #1 in public trust for 22 consecutive years
The "Halo Effect" - credibility and visibility by association with PBS
Engaged Audience
1.8M monthly broadcast viewers
302K monthly streaming users
124K newsletter subscribers
270K social followers
Expansive Platforms
4 broadcast channels
Streaming via the PBS app
PBS NC digital and social media channels
"The way we collaborated with PBS NC to promote the broadcast with a targeted and diverse marketing strategy was very effective. We were encouraged to work in tandem, providing media and promotional content that illustrated the authentic partnership at work between the film and PBS NC to bring the film to people."
- Paul Bonesteel, Director, Shadow of a Wheel
Editorial & Funder Guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a project distributed after I submit to you?
The duration between the submission of a project and its distribution can vary, but we generally adhere to a six-month timeline. This timeline commences once the producer and PBS North Carolina have mutually entered into a licensing agreement for the project. This timeframe enables the PBS North Carolina team to develop a programming strategy for the distribution and promotion of the project.
What rights does PBS NC require?
We negotiate digital and broadcast rights with producers for our owned and operated services and for third-party platforms. Our primary objective is to make your program available to our audience in the most impactful way possible while not impeding other opportunities.
For a finished program, what are the technical formats you need for a program submission?
Technical formats may differ depending on the platform. PBS North Carolina will provide a technical specification sheet for the program after it has been reviewed and approved for distribution.
Do you provide production funding?
Currently, we don’t offer production funding for projects submitted by independent producers. However, when funds are available, we may provide a modest licensing fee for acquired projects.
Additionally, we can offer the following resources:
- Letters of support
- Editorial consulting
- Statewide or national distribution on broadcast or digital platforms
- Marketing and promotion
- Community engagement events
- Audience reporting
Ready to Share Your Story?
Join a community of independent storytellers bringing impactful programming to millions of viewers across North Carolina and beyond.