Columbia Access Television

WHAT IS COLUMBIA ACCESS TELEVISION?

Columbia Access Television is an independent media center working to educate and empower the community.

CAT is a 501c(3) non-profit organization, formed in 2004. We are located on the campus of lovely Stephens College at 1405 E. Broadway, downstairs in the Helis Communication Center.

CAT operates the public access TV channel for the City of Columbia. Programming on CAT-TV channel 85 is 81% locally produced, including Locals-Only Primetime. Our entire archive of local shows (1450+) is available to watch On Demand and Podcast.

WHAT IS PUBLIC ACCESS & WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

In exchange for their use of public property, cable television providers are required to fund and broadcast PEG access channels (Public, Education, Government).

Public access makes it possible for anyone in the community to have the equipment and training necessary to make television programs.

Public access is a dedicated media outlet for Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Expression, without interference from government or private interests.

NATIONAL AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

In 2012 and 2010, CAT received a national award for Overall Excellence in Public Access (budget under $300,000) at the Hometown Video Awards.  The 2012 ceremony was held in Chicago during the Alliance for Community Media's annual conference and exhibition.

MEDIA SERVICES

CAT also offers media services for anyone who lives or works in Boone County.  You can hire CAT staff for video production, editing, graphic design, web design, etc.  We can create custom training sessions and/or a series of media lessons to meet your needs.  If it’s video, digital, or web, CAT can help.

“I think it’s wonderful that we do have Columbia Access Television.  One of the great things about Columbia is the community involvement that we have here....  It’s spectacular.  And Columbia Access Television is a prime example of that.  And I’m proud that the city is able to do its part in supporting it....  Let me point out that supporting a creative community is one of the best economic development investments you can possibly make.”

- Darwin Hindman, Former Mayor of Columbia