Probably one of the bigger mysteries of running a small community radio station is how exactly to fund everything you’re doing. After you've dealt with the FCC’s guidelines and have acquired a station and broadcasting licence, you still need to pay to keep the station. KXCI is a community radio station and they aren't for profit. They do not air any commercial segments and don’t take money from labels to play certain songs or singles.
Now, when I say they don’t take commercial segments, they still do receive some sponsorship funding from local businesses in Tucson. A business can give money to the station, and they will be mentioned as part of an underwriting program. So, you may hear KXCI mention and thank local businesses on air, which is a form of advertising. This differs from general commercial advertising as underwriting is written by the KXCI staff, and said on air by a DJ in real time. The businesses do not tell KXCI what to say on air.
In addition to underwriting, KXCI also raises funds through grants given to small smaller radio stations and fund-raising through its members. KXCI will have membership drives where they ask for donations to meet a certain funding goal. People that listen are urged to donate some money to the station to keep it running. These membership drives take place over a few weeks, and are vital to funding the station.
KXCI manages to exist thanks these funding techniques. It should also be mentioned that KXCI does not have a large staff. There are only four full-time employees at the station that ensure the stations runs properly.
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