Planningandoperationsexpensesrelatedtointernationalbroadcastinginthemiddleeast

The US Agency for Global Media awarded Middle East Broadcasting Networks, Inc. $69 million on October 1, 2025, under the International Broadcasting Independent Grantee Organizations program (CFDA 90.500) to fund planning and operational expenses for international broadcasting in the Middle East through September 30, 2026.

Middle East Broadcasting, a tax-exempt nonprofit headquartered in Springfield, Virginia, delivers multimedia content—including traditional broadcasting, digital media, podcasts, and video reporting—on politics, economics, science, and technology to audiences in the Middle East region. The organization operates as a congressionally-authorized alternative information source in regions with limited press freedoms, advancing U.S. public diplomacy objectives and promoting freedom and democracy through cross-cultural communication.

The award obligates $69 million for the twelve-month period of performance. Place of performance is Springfield, Virginia. The program's purpose is to promote freedom and democracy and enhance understanding through accurate, objective, and balanced news and information about America and the world to overseas audiences. Middle East Broadcasting is one of three nonprofit entities authorized to receive grants under this program; the others are Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Radio Free Asia. Grant recipients must submit annual financial plans, undergo independent audits, and maintain compliance documentation in accordance with USAGM requirements. Grantees must spend awarded funds within the fiscal year unless the Board of Governors grants permission to carry funds forward.