Although NET was launched with a budget of $10 million, it bled money. In 1995 alone, Weyrich transferred $2 million in assets to the project. Despite the initial support of its original associate broadcasters, it was only enough to cover the operating costs on a continuing basis. Further, the fears of most big business corporations against sponsorship left the network isolated. When it failed to get financial support on a continuing basis, NET split off as a private business and sought private funds.