Guide to Submitting Local Programs for Broadcast

Rocky Mountain PBS is pleased to support local, independent filmmakers. We are continually on the lookout for high quality content created by or about Coloradans.

Rocky Mountain PBS welcomes submissions of completed programs from local producers. Please review the following process, guidelines, and technical requirements, and submit your project to us online via the Submissions Form below.

Rocky Mountain PBS will select independent productions that meet the following criteria:

CONTENT

• We look for solid storytelling on subject matter that is of interest to our audience. Topics of interest to our audience include, but are not limited to:
  • Journalism
  • Arts & culture
  • Heritage
  • Public affairs
  • Human interest
  • Documentary / non-fiction
  • Education
  • Science & technology
  • Animals, nature & the environment
• Programs must be complete to be considered for broadcast
• Required lengths are 26:40 (for half hour slot), 56:40 (for a full hour slot) or 86:40 (for an hour and a half slot)
• Both single programs and series will be considered
• We are not accepting interstitial/short form content

EDITORIAL AND TECHNICAL STANDARDS

• Fair and contextual content must at least address the “other side(s)” of topical issues
• Producers must have rights to ALL the content included in their production, including new and archival footage, imagery, and music. Proof of music and visual cue sheets and on-air talent / interviewee releases are required.
• Producers are required to follow all Rocky Mountain PBS technical requirements, including providing embedded closed captioning for the program(s) and providing a digital version in the required format

UNDERWRITER / FINANCIAL GUIDELINES

• Rocky Mountain PBS follows the principles of PBS National for underwriting, credit format, rights, and promotion. For example, underwriters may not control content. Underwriting spots may not include calls to action or qualitative comparisons. Please visit the PBS Redbook for complete guidelines.
• RMPBS does not currently pay acquisition fees to local producers
• Fiscal Sponsorship / Presenting Station requests will be handled on a case by case basis for a fee
• RMPBS is NOT currently partnering on LINCS grants

Producer will be required to sign an agreement for a one-year release of the program with first right of refusal for Rocky Mountain PBS after that time period. (A release is defined as unlimited broadcast within a 7-day time period.) RMPBS will inform the Producer of the scheduled broadcast premiere.

Rocky Mountain PBS will attempt to review your submission form and program within 30 days.

Questions can be directed to:

Diane Cerafici
Content Coordinator
dianecerafici@rmpbs.org