Next Generation Warning System

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded CPB $136 million to establish and implement the Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) grant program. CPB is administering a competitive grant program for public television and public radio stations to replace and upgrade infrastructure to expand alert, warning, and interoperable communications, creating a more resilient and secure public alerting system.

The program funds equipment upgrades and training that will result in enhanced alerting and warning capabilities. The program prioritizes public media stations serving underserved communities, primarily in rural and tribal areas.

NGWS grant funding will: 

  • Enhance capacity of local broadcast stations to receive, broadcast, and redistribute emergency alert messages using the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS) Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) specifications;  
  • Allow for technical assistance for stations in determining equipment needs, purchasing, and installation;
  • Enhance technology infrastructure to enable new broadcast services that improve the distribution of public alerts and warnings and strengthen infrastructure resilience with emergency generators and other equipment; 
  • Expand the delivery and distribution of emergency alert messages from IPAWS to fill gaps in alert and warning delivery in underserved areas; and 
  • Enable the communication of alerts and warnings to individuals with disabilities, individuals with access and functional needs, and individuals with limited English proficiency. 

For more information, email ngws@cpb.org