Public Media in Mid-America (PRIMA)

PRIMA’s Mission

PRIMA is a regional membership organization that provides a forum for the discussion of issues and the development of consensus positions that advance the public radio industry and the services provided by its stations. It offers management training opportunities, facilitates industry planning and encourages the sharing of ideas and perspectives among industry professionals.

Strategic Directions

Over the next several years PRIMA will concentrate its resources on the following activities:

  • Identifying and addressing critical public radio issues

  • Providing professional development opportunities

  • Networking with individuals and organizations outside PRIMA

  • Insuring PRIMA representation on key decision making bodies

History of PRIMA

PRIMA began in 1975 when representatives of 16 public radio stations in six states gathered to discuss directions for the emerging public radio system. Today, PRIMA has grown to include nearly 100 stations and associate members comprising one of the largest public radio regional organizations in the United States. The growth of Public Radio In Mid America reflects an awareness that responsive development of public radio regionally and nationally requires a united effort of the stations.

PRIMA serves as a liaison and coordinating unit among the stations and other regional and national organizations and agencies. As such, PRIMA provides a unique forum and opportunity for cooperation that is not available on a national or state basis. Although geographical boundaries define the association, great diversity is apparent as smaller and larger stations together wrestle with common problems.

PRIMA has taken leadership initiatives on issues like:

  • NPR Dues Calculation

  • Digital Radio

  • NPR Board Election Procedures

  • NPR/Station Compact

PRIMA membership includes representatives of the boards and committees which create the policies and direction for the public radio system. The association meetings are effective forums for members to shape and influence those decisions.