Demonstrate strong storytelling and clear audience service.
Include a feasible budget and production timeline.
Meet MBP, PBS or FCC editorial and technical standards.
MPB External Submission Requirements
All submissions, without exception, must meet the following specifications:
Files must be provided in one of the following codecs:
Sony XDCam MXF OP1a (.mxf wrapper)
Apple ProRes 422 (.mov wrapper)
Avid DNxHD SQ (.mxf or .mov wrapper)
Resolution must be – 1920 x 1080
Frame rate must be – 29.97fps, drop frame.
After passing the initial inspection, the show will be viewed for quality control purposes. Certain criteria must be met in order to pass prior to air.
Video:
Audio and video must be in sync.
Show must be free of obvious visual imperfections, such as unintended flash frames or jump cuts.
Graphics must be within Action/Title Safe margins and free of misspellings and typos.
Audio:
Final mixdown must be either on (1) stereo track, or two (2) identical mono tracks.
The measured loudness of any program must adhere to PBS Broadcasting standards, with the resultant conforming to -24 LKFS, +/- 2LU.
True Peak levels shall not exceed -2dBTP at any time, and there should not be any instances of audible clipping or distortion.
Closed Captions:
Closed captions must be supplied alongside all submissions prior to air unless otherwise negotiated between the content creator and MPB.
Captions must be free of misspellings and typos.
Caption files may be embedded in show or submitted as sidecar files. Preferred files include .srt, .scc, and .mcc.
In addition to meeting the technical requirements laid out above, a music cue sheet is required prior to air. A visual cue sheet may be requested if archival footage was used.
Submission Process
Step 1: Initial Inquiry
Link to sample scenes, rough cut, or completed program. Submit a brief concept summary. This will include:
Producer Name, Email Address, City / State, Film Company/Organization
Title and Logline
Purpose and target audience
Relevance to public television
Key creative personnel
Distribution goals (local, national, digital)
Link to sample scenes, rough cut, or completed program.
If you submitted a rough cut or completed project and it is accepted, we may ask that it be edited to fit time or other standards.
Topics with potential political, sensitive, or controversial angles must present balanced viewpoints and fact-based information.
Step 5: Production Requirements
If accepted:
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), producer's agreement, licensing agreeent or contract will outline rights, responsibilities, deliverables, and timelines.
Producers must carry errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. MPB may make a request for a waiver that is subject to agency approval.
Production must follow PBS technical specifications and accessibility requirements (e.g., closed captioning, transcripts).
Periodic check-ins or review of rough cuts may be required.
Step 6: Marketing and Distribution
We collaborate with producers to promote the program locally and, when appropriate, to national public media partners. Producers should budget for marketing deliverables (key art, social media clips, press kits, etc.).
Step 7: Funding
We do not fund unsolicited productions outright. Producers are responsible for securing funding through grants, foundations, or other sources. In select cases, the station may help identify funding partners or serve as a fiscal sponsor.
Step 8: Contact and Questions
We value your interest in public media. For additional questions or to clarify requirements, contact:
Note: Submission does not guarantee production or broadcast. All partnerships are subject to editorial review, legal clearance, and alignment with our mission and capacity
