How to Start an AM Radio Station
Starting an AM radio station is a great career choice for someone with the gift of gab and love of music. AM stations are regulated by the Federal Government, so certain rules need to be followed when it comes to getting set up. Once that is done and the necessary equipment is purchased, the station can be up and running.
- Visit an AM station in the area. Those with no prior experience in the business should get as much information as possible regarding the daily in and outs of running a radio station. It is a good idea to spend at least 4 or 5 months as an intern at a radio station to get a feel for how the business is run.
- Enlist the advice of the owner. Before the internship ends at the station, schedule a meeting with the owner and bring a list of questions to ask. Include questions such as how the owner got started, where equipment was purchased and what common mistakes to avoid.
- Hire an attorney. This will ensure that all the necessary paperwork and regulations set forth by the Federal Communications Commission are properly handled.
- Contact the Internal Revenue Service. Apply for a tax identification number for the business and ensure that you have applied for all licenses to run the station.
- Find a building. For most businesses, being centrally located is advised, but since people will not be going to the station, but rather listening in, the location is purely a preference.
- Purchase the necessary equipment. Things like music software, radio microphones, studio consoles and headphones will need to be purchased.
- Look for sponsors. Reach out to local businesses to sponsor the station in exchange for free advertising of the company on the air.