In the United States the Federal Communications Commission, overseer of the airwaves, has opened a radio station licensing window for Low-Power FM (LPFM) radio stations. These are generally specialized or community-oriented stations whose power is limited to 100 W. And, important point, they aren’t meant to be profitable.
US-based radio consultancy DNAV has launched a website, IWantARadioStation.com, to aid potential applicants with the ins and outs of prospectively successful efforts.
DNAV’s Nick Straka says, “The FCC favors voices with a local presence and no current broadcast properties, and they will grant licenses to those who qualify on a first-come, first-serve basis. Our Low Power FM Licensing Team program will guide applicants through the filing process, and our expertise in presenting FM license applications to the FCC with increase the likelihood of being selected.” FCC favorites tend to be nonprofit community groups, churches and schools.
DNAV has helped 15 stations get on air in previous LPFM licensing windows. Its integration side can also help lucky license winners with construction of the radio facilities, including complete turnkey packages. The deadline is Nov. 1 so don’t dawdle.