What type of content do you primarily create?
Although listening to podcasts is free, producing them comes with some costs. Recording equipment, editing software, podcast hosting, and other services can quickly add up. To produce a top-notch podcast—and launch, produce, and grow that podcast the way it deserves—it's essential to secure funding. One great way to secure funds is through grants. Here’s what you should know about podcast grants.
What is a grant?
Grants are funds used to support a project or initiative. Unlike loans, you don't have to repay grants. They are taxable, however.
Most grants are one-time cash contributions ranging from small amounts to thousands of dollars. In some cases, they're distributed in installments over several years.
Although considered “free” money, strings are often attached. Many grants have strict eligibility requirements and spending stipulations you have to follow. Always thoroughly read the terms and conditions to understand what is expected of you and the funder.
Grants can come from various sources, including government organizations (federal, state, and local agencies), foundations, international organizations, for-profit businesses, and individuals. Some provide financial support and additional non-financial benefits, such as mentoring, networking, services, and other valuable resources.
The good news is that you can apply for a grant at any time. Grants usually have an open submission period that can last a few weeks to several years. Some grants have rolling deadlines, which means they accept applications on an ongoing basis with no set due date. This can be nice because it lets you apply whenever best suits your schedule and project timeline.
16 best podcast grants
While there are several specific grants for podcasters and audio creators, which we will detail below, remember that podcasters qualify for a wide range of general funding opportunities.
Small business grants, fellowships, media grants, and pitch competitions are all potential avenues for podcast funding. Don’t limit yourself; just because a grant doesn't say “podcasts” doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply.
💡 Tip: Subscribe to each organization's newsletter below for future grant announcements.
1. Elevate Creatives Fund
The Elevate Creatives Fund is open to independent US and Canada-based creators and creative businesses. $20,000 grants are available to remove financial barriers, accelerate growth, and fuel the positive impact you're making in your community.
Deadline: July 31, 2024
2. National Endowment for the Humanities Media Projects
Grounded in the humanities, The Media Projects division of the National Endowment for the Humanities supports developing and producing engaging radio programs, podcasts, and creative documentary films. Grants are available for up to $75,000 for development awards and $700,000 for production awards.
Deadline: August 14, 2024
3. The Black & Brown Podcast Collective
Supporting emerging podcasters of color, The Black & Brown Podcast Collective supports the growth of BIPOC-led podcasts through micro-grants. With no deadlines, grant recipients are announced on a rolling basis.
Deadline: None
4. Women of Color Podcasters Grant
Our Greatness supports independent Women of Color in their podcasting endeavors by providing micro-grants to those not affiliated with large companies or networks. Interested podcasters can apply for one grant per calendar year. Recipients are notified monthly.
Deadline: None
5. Plutus Foundation Content Creator Grant
The Plutus Foundation offers a semiannual $2,000 grant to support independent financial media. This grant promotes the creation and advancement of financial literacy empowerment. Podcasters, educators, speakers, bloggers, and authors are encouraged to apply. Applicants are expected to prepare a program budget and detail the program outcomes.
Deadline: Passed; register for the newsletter for updates on the next round
6. The Podcasting Seriously Awards Fund
Want to apply for a podcasting award, take a course, or receive production education and training? Supporting independent BIPOC, Queer, and Trans audio producers based in Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia, The Podcasting Seriously Awards Fund grants up to $200 in awards reimbursements and $500 in education reimbursements per calendar year. Podcasting conferences and events are not eligible.
Deadline: Rolling submission
7. Audible Podcast Development Program
All production fees, including talent, are covered, as is access to their production equipment, mentorship, and peer networking opportunities.
Deadline: Passed; check back regularly for the next submission window
8. AIR Media New Voices
Since 2009, the New Voices program by AIR Media has offered early-career radio and audio creators from underrepresented backgrounds professional development support over five months, mentorship from industry leaders, and a $1,000 stipend.
Deadline: Applications open in May and are typically due a few weeks later.
9. AIR Media New Voices AMPLIFY
In 2024, AIR Media announced its newest program, New Voices AMPLIFY, a marketing accelerator for independent creators with an existing podcast. Each cohort participant received a $1,000 stipend, a year’s membership, and workshops to help their shows stand out.
Deadline: Passed, register for the newsletter for updates on future opportunities
10. PRX
Over the years, PRX has partnered with leading organizations offering various podcast grants, including the Google Podcasts Creator Program and PRX Big Questions Project.
Working closely with diverse creators to launch sustainable podcasts that reach a broad audience, recipients received training, one-on-one mentorship, and funding of up to $35,000 for production costs and travel reimbursement.
While there is no PRX podcast grant at the moment, it's an organization worth following for future opportunities.
11. NPR
Want to work in public radio? Each year, NPR (National Public Radio) offers fellowships, including the KROC Fellowship, where fellows develop audio production and writing skills while working on an NPR podcast. It's not necessary to have previous journalism or public radio experience. Fellows receive a stipend of $50,000+ and benefits, including paid vacation.
Deadline: Applications are accepted between late August and November each year and last 12 months.
12. The Knight Foundation
The Knight Foundation is a nonprofit that offers grants for free expression and journalism, art grants, and grants for podcasters, with a focus on civic engagement and culture.
Deadline: Varies
13. TELUS STORYHIVE Video Podcast
Calling all Canadian podcasters in British Columbia and Alberta! The TELUS STORYHIVE Video Podcast offers $12,000 in production funding for locally reflective video podcasts centered around community conversations, candid discussions, and deep, thought-provoking ideas. In addition to funding, recipients also receive training and distribution.
Applicants must submit a 60-second pitch video recorded on a smartphone.
Deadline: Passed, follow the organization for the next opportunity
14. Content is Queen
Transforming your podcast ideas into reality, Content is Queen Micro-Grants For Podcasters awards £1,000 for launching original pilots, developing trailers, or producing episodes of an existing series. Creators even have the opportunity to pitch their shows to Audible for further development. New and existing podcasters across the globe are eligible to apply.
Deadline: Not announced, sign up for the newsletter for updates
15. TruePlay Content Creator Awards
Deadline: Varies
16. Awesome Foundation
Funding awesome ideas and projects, including arts, community engagements, and more, the Awesome Foundation awards $1,000 no-strings grants every month. Select which chapter you're applying to in your application and upload five images that will help the trustees better understand your project.
Deadline: Varies
17. Substack
Substack supports creators with fellowships for writers, podcasters, and video creators at the intersection of audio and subscription-based newsletters. For example, the Summer of Sound provided audio creators and musicians a $1,000 stipend, essential gear, and tailored guidance to grow sustainable projects and communities on the platform.
Deadline: Varies
How to apply for a grant: Best practices
- Find the right grants and funders. Funders fund projects aligned with their mission and funding areas. Before applying for grants, thoroughly review the funding announcement and the funder's About page to ensure your project fits within the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
- Read the guidelines carefully. Pay close attention to all eligibility requirements, read the FAQs, and attend the webinars and information sessions offered by the funder to learn more about the application process and how your application can stand out.
- Stay organized. While some grant applications are short, others can be involved. Once you’ve identified a perfect-fit podcast grant, devote time to crafting your answers and gathering the required assets and documents. Add deadlines to your calendar so you never miss submissions.
- Don’t lose your work. Avoid writing your responses directly in the grant application. Instead, jot down your ideas elsewhere and copy and paste your answers into the application when you're ready. In case of a power outage or internet glitch, you won’t lose your work.
- Get feedback. Ask colleagues to review your grant application and provide constructive feedback before submitting it. Guide them with pointed questions to help you uncover areas for improvement.
- Remember that podcast grants are competitive. Award rates for grants are low. With many applicants and limited funding, don’t be discouraged if you don't receive an award. Keep refining your grant writing skills and try again.
Podcast Grants FAQ
How do I get funding to start a podcast?
You can get funding to start a podcast in many ways, from grants to accelerator programs from dozens of organizations like New Voices by AIR Media. Podcast funding alternatives include selling ads, asking for donations, creating memberships, selling physical or digital products, or hosting a live event (virtual or in-person).
What is a grant?
A grant is money awarded to an individual or organization to support a project or initiative that closely aligns with the funder’s mission. Grants are not loans and do not have to be repaid.
Who can apply for podcast grants?
Who can apply for podcast grants varies by grant program. Some grants are geared toward aspiring podcasters; others support established audio creators and professionals.
How much funding is available?
Grants can range from $200 to beyond $100,000. Each grant program has a different budget. Funding amounts are usually listed in the announcement, but feel free to contact the funder if you have any questions.
Can I apply for multiple grants simultaneously?
You can apply for multiple grants unless otherwise restricted by the funder. Always read the fine print to confirm eligibility.
Where are the best places to find podcast grants?
What can I use grant funding for?
Grants can be used to purchase podcasting tools and equipment, such as high-quality microphones, headphones, and recording and editing software. You can also outsource services like podcast cover art design and graphics creation, editing tools like Descript, or studio space. Always read the guidelines for each grant carefully to understand what is allowed and if there are restrictions.
When will I hear back from a funder?
You may hear back within a few weeks or several months. Every funder has a different evaluation period. Refer to the funding announcement for more details.
How do I get funding to start a podcast?
In addition to grants, there are multiple ways to monetize your podcast, including podcast sponsorships, affiliate marketing, merchandise sales, listener donations, and creating digital products, like an online course.
Where can I get podcast funding?
While podcasting may feel like a labor of love, there are various ways to generate funds to sustainably support your show, in addition to bootstrapping and self-funding.
Crowdfunding websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo make raising funds for your podcast easy.
Alternatively, Patreon allows fans to support your creative work with exclusive content and benefits through one-time donations or membership.
Podcast grants and fellowships can provide the financial support needed to launch, produce, improve, or grow a show. Funders, such as government agencies, corporate entities, and individuals, issue grants to support specific causes or initiatives.
Generate revenue by partnering with brands on advertising placements. While podcast sponsorships usually require an engaged audience, some podcasters can secure brand deals early in their podcasting journey.
How do I earn money from podcasts?
There is no shortage of podcast monetization ideas from done-for-you services, affiliate marketing, hosting workshops, private communities or memberships, donations, crowdfunding, paid newsletters, and sponsorships.
Newsletters like Creators Getting Paid by Michelle Jackson offer a wealth of actionable money-making strategies and inspiring case studies, broadening your view of what’s possible.
Speaking of, here are 12 proven ways to make money podcasting.
