Aims/priorities: 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.
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.
For analogue community radio stations, there should be a minimum of fifteen months remaining on the licence from the closing date for applications. If there are less than fifteen months remaining on the licence, the licensee must have submitted an extension application to Ofcom by the closing date. C-DSP licences do not have an end date.
Grant amount: 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.
Application process: Guidance notes and an application form are available from the Ofcom website.
Completed applications should be submitted by email.
Deadline: Tuesday 13 June 2023, 5pm.
Contact information: Email: communityradiofund@ofcom.org.uk
Website: Community Radio Fund - Ofcom