Ofcom-licensed community radio stations across the United Kingdom can apply for funding to help support core running costs.

Ofcom is offering grants for licensed community radio stations in the UK, broadcasting on AM, FM, or by a Community Digital Sound Programme (C-DSP) licence on a digital radio multiplex.

The Community Radio Fund, provided by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), can be used to 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.

The total amount available in 2022-23 is nearly £400,000.

There is no minimum or maximum amount that can be applied for. Last year, grants ranged between £6,000 and £22,000, with an average grant of around £15,000.

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

There are normally two funding rounds in each financial year.

The deadline for applications to the first round is 10 June 2022. 

How To Apply

This fund is now open. The deadline for applications is 10 June 2022.

Depending on the number of applications received, the Community Radio Fund Panel expects to meet in July 2022 to consider the applications.

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