Community Radio Fund

Description

Grants are available to support the core costs of running Ofcom-licensed community radio stations in the UK that are currently broadcasting.

Current Status: Open for Applications

Maximum value: Discretionary

Objectives of Fund

This funding aims to support the core costs of running Ofcom-licensed community radio stations.

In addition, Community Digital Sound Programme (“C-DSP”) stations will be eligible for grants, alongside existing analogue community radio stations, if the station is broadcasting on a digital radio multiplex at the date of their application.

Value Notes

The total amount available in 2023/24 is £404,020 (which includes an underspend from the previous year).

There is no set level of funding.

In the last round, the grants awarded ranged from £1,500 up to £24,570 for individual positions, with an average of £14,789.

Grants will be made as a single lump sum and must be spent within 14 months.

Who Can Apply

Licensees that hold a Community Digital Sound Programme (C-DSP) licence are eligible to apply for the Fund if the station is broadcasting on a digital radio multiplex at the date of their application.

Grants can only be made to Ofcom-licensed community radio stations in the UK, broadcasting on AM, FM, or via a C-DSP licence on a digital radio multiplex.

Applicant stations must be on air as at the date of their application for their application to be considered by the Panel. Payment can only be made to stations that have launched.

Eligible Expenditure

The funding can support the core costs of running Ofcom licensed community radio stations including:

• Management
• Fundraising to support the station (eg, grants, commercial funding)
• Administration
• Financial management and reporting
• Community outreach
• Volunteer organisation and support

How To Apply

There are normally two funding rounds per year.

The deadline for applications to the first round of 2023/24 is 13 June 2023 (5pm).

Guidance notes and an application form are available from the Ofcom website.

Completed applications should be submitted by email.

Contact the Community Radio Fund team for further information or visit their website here Community Radio Fund – Ofcom