Radio & Audio Grantmaking: Reaching New Audiences Through Old Platforms

Radio and audio are being used in exciting ways to reach new audiences, spark civic engagement across diverse communities, examine science, advance disability education, and much more. Despite being perceived as less dynamic than web- and mobile-based media in recent years, radio in particular is garnering significant philanthropic support across a range of programming themes. The funding data tell a compelling story: radio receives a significant share of philanthropic dollars when compared to television, film, or video.

Use This Guide To:

1. Investigate the history of media philanthropy for radio platforms
2. Track growing and waning trends in philanthropic support for radio and podcasts
3. Consider new roles philanthropy can play, particularly in the wake of public media funding cuts in 2025

Suggested Content:

• Reimagining Public Media – Strategic Leadership and Innovation in Local News
• Pew-Knight Initiative Media Habits
• Funding the News: Foundations and Nonprofit Media

Featured Members: 

• American Public Media Group
• PBS Foundation
• Carnegie Corporation of New York

Source: Media Impact Funders