Preparing for Low Power Community Radio

Given the recent passage of the Local Community Radio Act, we're anticipating that there will be a chance to apply for new low power stations in the next year or two! The FCC still needs to clarify some of the rules around low power FM licensing, so we can't tell you all the details yet. But in the resources below, you'll find some background on low power radio and tips on preparing to start a station, from fundraising to starting a non-profit to making media.

And if you haven't already signed up for updates on starting a station, please do so at http://prometheusradio.org/want_to_start_a_station. 

Low Power Community Radio: A New and Improved Tool to Amplify Community Voices

All over the country and across the FM broadcast band, there are radio stations operating with the power of a light bulb. These low power FM stations (LPFMs) continuously pump out high-powered content. LPFMs are a forum for schools, churches, community centers, farm worker organizations, environmentalists, and just about anyone else who doesn't get much airtime on the higher-powered stations. read more

The Power of Radio

We value radio because it is easy to produce, free to consume, and accessible to more people across the world than any other mass media. Radio does not require expensive equipment, literacy, or a broadband connection. We believe in participatory radio because it is a proven tool for movement-building and cultural expression. read more 

Finding an Available Channel

A radio license is not like a drivers license- you can't operate your radio station wherever you please. The transmitter and antenna can only be assigned to an exact geographic location, and you have to specify a location in your application that meets the FCC's requirements. As of May, 2011, the FCC has not finalized their requirements for locating new low power FM stations. After they announce the new requirements, you will need to check to see if there is an eligible channel in your area. read more

Organizing in Your Community

The best low power FM stations are led by a coalition of groups, strong leaders within the community, and/or have a dedicated group of volunteers. Even though a licensing window maybe a year away, there are many things you can do in the mean time to organize your community around this issue. Independent media centers, community access TV stations, community newspapers, community based organizations, schools, churches, neighborhood groups, and social justice organizations all make great collaborating partners. Prometheus suggests holding a meeting for interested parties to begin mapping out a plan for community involvement. With your groups assembled you can begin to make media, fundraise, and plan for the implementation of your project. read more

Cost Estimation

One of the absolutely beautiful things about low power radio is how cheap it is. Many stations get on the air for under $10,000 and can stay on the air for less than $1,000 per month. The main start-up expenses for a radio station are engineering fees, studio equipment for producing radio shows, and transmitting equipment for sending your signals out to the world. The main recurring costs are rent, utilities, and personnel. read more