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There are plenty of unused frequencies in your area. Google: Radio Locator and see unused frequencies after you put your town in the search box. Non -profit radio is a scramble for money, you are dependent on donations. Mostly it is the territory of churches, colleges and State funded NPR related stations. Considering where you are, you will want a coverage area that includes Natchez. The low power FCC window is currently closed. Google : LPFM. You can apply for a full power license. The whole thing starts with a FCC related attorney based in DC. Then figure on 18 months and at least $75k for set-up, Tower lease per month and music license expenses then go on for ever. If you think you cannot do all this, consider an Internet only radio station....half the cost. Keep in mind, radio stations are going off the air each year. The milleniniums have stopped listening to over the air radio. Contact me direct for more info.
Why a radio station? Why not just a radio show?
You should also look into Podcasting, as there's a lot of free options.
You could also look a hosting a simple radio show on sites like Blog Talk Radio or Talk Shoe.
I highly suggest looking at these options, from a startup cost perspective, especially just starting out. Use this to target your audience/market. If it becomes a success, you can then branch out into other options.
Hi Derrick- I suggest gauging interest of other parties in the area before you tackle something like this yourself. I would also start to connect with other non profit successful stations to get advice on how they started and became successful. You may want to tap into Alcorn State University. Faculty may be interested in offering your idea to their class as a group project and they can help jump start your business plan for you.
Why a non profit ? Why not a for-profit ? Do you have a business plan ? Is there spectrum available ? Have you hired an FCC attorney to file your application for broadcast license ?
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