Aims/priorities: This funding aims to support core and equipment costs of running Ofcom-licensed community radio stations.
In addition, Community Digital Sound Programme ("C-DSP") stations will be eligible for grants, alongside existing analogue community radio stations, if the station is broadcasting on a digital radio multiplex at the date of their application.
Who can apply? Community radio stations licensed by Ofcom can apply.
For equipment stream grants, analogue community radio services who have been on air for 10 or more years, and are on air at date of application, can apply.
For sustainability grants, analogue community radio stations and C-DSP stations who are on air at the date of application can apply.
For analogue community radio stations, there should be a minimum of fifteen months remaining on the licence from the closing date for applications. If there are less than fifteen months remaining on the licence, the licensee must have submitted an extension application to Ofcom by the closing date. C-DSP licences do not have an end date.
Grant amount: A total of £904,644 is available over the 2026-27 financial year across one funding round.
The following grant streams are available:
- One-off equipment stream grants of up to £2,000 are available.
- Sustainability stream grants of up to £100,000 are available (multi-year grants of up to three years may be considered in this funding round).
Application process: Guidance notes and an application form are available from the Ofcom website.
Completed applications should be submitted by email.
Contact the Community Radio Fund team for further information.
Deadline: Wednesday, 14 October 2026.
Contact information: Contacting Ofcom
Website: Community Radio Fund