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Getting Started Index

Navigate the Getting Started Guide using the links below.

1. 1. Create a Board of Directors
2. 2. File for 501 c-3 status (non-profit)
3. 3. Buying an Existing Station
4. 4. Build a New Station
5. 5. Create a Business Plan
6. 6. Meet with the Local Ordinary
7. 7. Fundraising (Parish Presentations)
8. 8. Programming

1. Create a Board of Directors

You will need some seed money (this should be raised from the Board of Directors) for start up costs.

2. File for 501 c-3 status (non-profit)

3. Buying an Existing Station

Communicate with a broker. Working with a broker will help you to identify stations that are available in your area and ensure that you pay fair market value for a radio property.

4. Build a New Station

There are opportunities in some markets to build new stations on unoccupied frequencies. As time goes on the availability of such stations becomes less and less. However, occasionally the FCC opens band space (frequencies) that have not been available before. You can learn about these possibilities by contacting EWTN or its support organization, The Catholic Radio Association (CRA).

5. Create a Business Plan

Once you have determined whether you are going to buy an existing station or discovered there is an opportunity to build a new station in your area it is time to create your business plan. The costs associated with purchasing and or build-out is essential in the creation of this plan. In addition this plan should include at least two years operating expense for the station.

6. Meet with the Local Ordinary

Once a station has been identified (and preferably a price agreed upon for purchase) and the business plan has been created a meeting should be set up with the local Ordinary (Bishop, Archbishop, Cardinal). A representative of EWTN will accompany you to the meeting to ensure you ask for what you need. The goal of the meeting is to obtain a letter from the Bishop to the pastors (those located in your signal footprint) requesting their participation to schedule parish presentations given by your apostolate. In addition, he will be asked to attend a kick-off event for the project.

7. Fundraising (Parish Presentations)

EWTN provides all needed training and material for this awareness and fundraising project.

8. Programming

EWTN provides its radio programming free of charge.

Please contact us at radio@ewtn.com with any additional questions you may have.

Cannot find your question?

Please contact us with any additional questions you may have.

Back to Frequently Asked Questions

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