Grant Opportunities for
LPTV Broadcasters and Schools
Are you an LPTV broadcaster, station owner, or industry professional?
You have a unique opportunity to help grow the future of Low Power Television by partnering with schools in your community. Through educational programs, students can gain valuable broadcasting and media production skills while discovering career opportunities in our industry.
Did you know that federal, state, and private funding opportunities may help support Low Power Television (LPTV) initiatives in educational settings? When an LPTV station is connected to media, technology, career and technical education (CTE), or public service programs, grant funding may be available.
Federal Programs
Perkins V Career and Technical Education (CTE) Act
Perkins V is the primary federal funding source for Career and Technical Education programs. Schools with approved media arts, broadcast journalism, or audio/video production pathways may use these funds to purchase equipment—including cameras, audio gear, editing systems, and broadcast technology—as well as support professional development. If an LPTV station is integrated into an approved CTE program, it may qualify for funding. Explore Perkins V Grant Programs
These federal education grants support technology integration, digital learning, and media production programs. Depending on the educational goals, LPTV broadcasting projects may qualify when they enhance classroom instruction or student learning. Explore Title IV Funding Opportunities
National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
The NTIA administers grant programs that support emerging technologies, spectrum innovation, broadband deployment, and digital communications throughout the United States. While these grants are not designed specifically for schools, they may be applicable when an LPTV station participates in educational outreach or public service initiatives. Explore NTIA Funding Opportunities
The Department of Education has funds available to help state education agencies (SEAs), local education agencies (LEAs), and other education stakeholders to support state and local efforts to improve student achievement, educational equity, and access to educational opportunities for all students.
State and Local Opportunities
Many states offer grants for technology, digital media, communications, and career education programs in K–12 schools. These funds may be used for broadcasting equipment, production tools, curriculum development, or student training.
Contact your state's Department of Education or Career and Technical Education (CTE) office to learn about current funding opportunities.
Many States have a listing of grants they offer. Search “(State Name) educational grant opportunities in broadcasting for high school.
Striv Education helps teachers put together a plan for STUDENT-LED BROADCAST PROGRAMS. Build a program your students actually own with curriculum, systems, and support to build student-led programs that actually work — so you can stop firefighting and start teaching + How Schools Can Find Media Program Funding
Media and Private Foundation Support
PBS LearningMedia and other media partners
Some PBS affiliates and media organizations offer grants, equipment, curriculum resources, or in-kind support for educational media programs. LPTV projects that emphasize education and community outreach may be eligible.
Local Television Stations and Press Associations
Many local broadcasters and journalism organizations provide equipment, donations, mentoring opportunities, internships, or small grants to help develop student broadcasting programs. All it takes is a phone call.
Tips for a Strong Grant Application
Match your project to the right funding source. Whether your focus is student journalism, media production, public service, STEM education, or community outreach, tailor your application accordingly.
Demonstrate educational value. Show how the LPTV program supports curriculum, workforce development, and community engagement.
Verify eligibility. Confirm that your school or program meets the requirements of the specific grant or is part of an approved CTE pathway.
Apply early. Most grants are competitive and follow annual funding cycles.
When applying, emphasize how your LPTV program will develop technical skills, encourage creativity, strengthen communication abilities, and prepare students for careers in broadcasting and media. Funders want to invest in programs that create measurable educational impact.
If your LPTV station is student-run—or serves an educational mission—position it as part of a Career and Technical Education (CTE) or media arts program whenever possible. This approach can significantly strengthen your grant application and improve your chances of securing funding.