Underwriting is to public television what advertising is to commercial TV. By sharing our costs, organizations can be directly associated on-air with quality television programs. Program underwriting can be designated for nationally acquired series like This Old House, Nova or The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.

Who Underwrites Public Television Programming?

Underwriters range from small businesses to large corporations and foundations. Organizations that choose to underwrite Public Television desire to enhance their corporate image, create product knowledge or address issues that may be affecting their work environment or community. They're also eager to associate their companies with the most highly regarded brand name in America: PBS.

Public Television enlightens, entertains and challenges. It makes us laugh, it touches our hearts and gives hope for the future while exploring the present. Put simply, Public Television is quality.

In addition to favorite programs available on Public Television like The Newshour with Jim Lehrer and Nature, there's a variety of programs that are scheduled as demanded by the community. For the latest program information or to learn how your organization can begin underwriting right away, contact Richard Robbins of the Channel 10/36 Friends Underwriting Department at (414) 297-8012.

On-Air Credit:

Program underwriter's support is recognized with quality Public Television programming.

Off-Air Credit:

Program underwriter's support is recognized in Fine Tuning magazine in addition to other print materials that are available.

Promotional Opportunities:

Program underwriters may associate with highly visible special events in our area.

Partner With Quality:

As a program underwriter on Milwaukee Public Television, you partner with an institution which has earned a reputation for superb programming in the arts, news, currents affairs, science and entertainment. An underwriting investment in public television is a valuable marketing and public relations tool for your company.

Enrich the Community:

Just as libraries, schools and cultural institutions provide valuable services, Channels 10 & 36 make a unique contribution to the quality of life throughout the area. Public Television is the best place to find excellent programming for every age. With our wide variety of shows, viewers can spend a night at the opera, explore the world we live in, venture to places not yet fully known to mankind and closely examine the top news stories that affect us each day.

Reach Influential Business, Community and Government Leaders:

Public television members are 34% more likely to have a head-of- household with an income of more than $40,000 than adults as a whole, and 78% more likely to have head of household incomes in excess of $75,000. Additionally, public television members are 182% more likely to write a letter to an elected official than the average adult. Not surprisingly, public television viewers and members excel in a number of important category clusters that could help your business effectively communicate with your prospects. (Source: MRI, Media Research, Inc.)

Enhance Your Corporate Image:

Ninety percent of public television members agreed that underwriters "provide a public service" through their support. About 80% of public television members feel that underwriters are usually industry leaders, and that they "have a commitment to quality and excellence." Furthermore, almost 70% of viewers could name one or more companies that underwrite public television programs, and more than half said they would purchase products or services from underwriters before purchasing from a commercial advertiser. (Source: Statistical Research, Inc.)

Increase Employee Morale:

When you consider the many advantages of supporting public television, it only follows that your workforce will also thrive from the partnership. In today's workplace, people do take pride in their association with responsible corporate citizens. Your employees, along with the rest of the community, will appreciate your commitment to education, the arts and sciences and current affairs.