Public Radio Funding by Elian Wildgrove

Public Radio Funding explores the complex financial structure that supports public radio, an essential source of independent journalism and cultural programming. It examines the diverse revenue streams, including listener donations, government grants, and corporate sponsorships, highlighting the political forces influencing this media landscape. One intriguing fact is that listener donations often form a significant portion of a station's budget, reflecting the strong community support. The book delves into the motivations behind listener giving and the fundraising strategies employed by stations. It also addresses the delicate balance between providing enriching, often educational programming and attracting a broader audience with more accessible content. The book explores the evolution of public radio funding, from its mid-20th century origins to the present day, placing everything into the context of key policy and economic changes. The book progresses logically, starting with the principles of public radio funding, then examining listener donations, government funding, and corporate sponsorships. It concludes with a discussion of the future. Using financial data, audience research, and interviews, the book provides practical recommendations for stations and policymakers, making it valuable for anyone interested in the sustainability of independent media.