Funding Nonprofit Radio Technology Initiatives in Canada

Abstract

Media organizations worldwide are struggling to find sustainable financial models since the arrival of the internet. Nonprofit radio is no different. Using a thematic analysis of 62 Canadian nonprofit stations’ financial statements from 2012–2015, this study examines the impact of the Community Radio Fund of Canada’s Radiometers’ grant competition. Although results show a small financial gain for those who received funding, the study fails to determine the value of relying on such a grant for long-term technological sustainability. This study also shows the classic income effect by demonstrating how stations continued spending on technology whether they received grants or not. Recommendations include creating a matching fund program to encourage stations to find alternative sources of income to sustain their projects and increase accountability.