Nā Leo TV Has Launched First Live Fund Drive
The Hilo-based organization is hosting a 16-hour marathon to offset a $200,000 decline in cable fee revenue.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Philanthropy
Live Poll
Should local residents contribute money to help sustain their community television station?
Nā Leo TV has kicked off its first-ever live fund drive in an effort to raise $200,000 for local operations. The 16-hour event seeks to support the station after cable franchise access fees dropped by $200,000 in 2026.
Why it matters
The organization is moving to diversify its funding streams due to the ongoing decline in traditional cable subscription revenue. This shift marks a pivotal change for the station, which has operated in the region for over 30 years.
The fundraising goal is set at $200,000, matching the exact amount of lost revenue from cable franchise fees. Monthly contributions for the new Friends of NLTV program start at $5.
The players
Nā Leo TV
This organization has served as a community media outlet on Hawaiʻi Island for more than 30 years.
Ashley Kierkiewicz
She is a co-host of the station's inaugural live fund drive event.
Heston Kaʻaihue
He is serving as a co-host for the 16-hour television fundraiser.
The details
Co-hosted by Ashley Kierkiewicz and Heston Kaʻaihue, the fund drive features variety segments including live music, cooking demonstrations, and historical reenactments. The program is airing on Channel 54 and is simultaneously broadcast via YouTube, Kick, and Twitch.
Timeline
The fund drive began on October 8, 2026, at 4 p.m.
The broadcast is scheduled to conclude on October 9, 2026, at midnight.
Market Landscape
The transition to a viewer-supported model reflects a broader shift among local media outlets as cord-cutting impacts traditional cable franchise fees. This fundraising effort positions Nā Leo TV to stabilize its operations against industry-wide funding volatility.
Local viewers can participate in the station's new Friends of NLTV program through monthly, annual, or one-time contributions. These donations are designed to ensure the continued production of local community programming on Channel 54.
The takeaway
Supporting public access media helps maintain local content that is often not covered by larger national networks. Residents are encouraged to review their preferred contribution levels to help sustain Hilo-based programming.
Further reading
Learn more about the Philanthropy efforts currently shaping local community initiatives in Hilo.
More information
View the Friends of NLTV giving and schedule to participate in the fundraiser.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Big Island Video News.
Live Poll
Should local residents contribute money to help sustain their community television station?
