Creating an amazing podcast is free for listeners but surprisingly expensive for creators. Microphones, editing software, podcast hosting, and other production essentials quickly drain your budget before you even hit record. Here's the part most podcast gurus don't talk about: there's actually grant money specifically for podcasters sitting out there, unclaimed. Whether you're struggling to launch your first episode or trying to level up an existing show, podcast grants could be the funding solution you've been overlooking. No loan applications or giving up ownership—just financial support for your creative vision. Here's what you need to know about finding and securing podcast grants.

Understanding Podcast Grants: Definition and Benefits

Grants are funds awarded to support a project or initiative. Unlike loans, they don’t require repayment, but they may be subject to taxes.

Most grants are one-time cash awards, ranging from small amounts to thousands of dollars. Some are distributed in installments over multiple years.

Although grants are considered 'free' money, they often come with strict eligibility requirements and spending restrictions. Always review the terms and conditions carefully to ensure compliance with the funder's expectations.

Grants can come from government agencies (federal, state, and local), foundations, international organizations, for-profit businesses, and individuals. Some offer additional benefits like mentorship, networking, and access to resources.

The good news is that you can apply for grants year-round. Some grants have specific submission windows, while others accept applications on a rolling basis, allowing you to apply when it best fits your schedule and project timeline.

Top Podcast Grants for Content Creators

While there are grants specifically for podcasters and audio creators, many general funding opportunities are also available.

Small business grants, fellowships, media grants, and pitch competitions are all potential podcast funding sources. Don’t limit yourself—many grants that don’t explicitly mention 'podcasts' may still be applicable.

💡 Tip: Subscribe to each organization's newsletter below to stay updated on future podcast grant opportunities.

1. Elevate Creatives Fund

The Elevate Creatives Fund supports independent creators and creative businesses in the U.S. and Canada. Grants of $20,000 help remove financial barriers, accelerate growth, and enhance community impact.

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 the development and production of compelling radio programs, podcasts, and documentary films. Grants range from $75,000 for development to $700,000 for production.

Deadline: August 14, 2024

3. The Black & Brown Podcast Collective

Supporting emerging podcasters of color, The Black & Brown Podcast Collective offers micro-grants to help BIPOC-led podcasts grow. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis with no set deadline.

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 provides semiannual $2,000 grants to support independent financial media, including podcasters. Applicants must submit a program budget and outline measurable 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 Podcast Funding Opportunities

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 Podcast Funding Programs

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 Podcast Grant Program

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

Detailed Grant Application Process

Applying for podcast grants can be daunting, but understanding the process can simplify it significantly.

• Research the grant thoroughly to align your proposal with the funder's goals.
• Craft a strong proposal that outlines your project objectives and potential impact.
• Develop a detailed budget that meets the grant's requirements.

Additionally, ensure your application is professional and error-free by reviewing and editing meticulously.

Alternative Funding Options

While grants are valuable, exploring alternative funding methods can be equally beneficial for podcasters.

• Sponsorships offer financial support in exchange for promoting brands.
• Crowdfunding allows you to raise funds directly from your audience through platforms like Kickstarter.

Memberships through services like Patreon can provide a consistent income stream by offering exclusive content.

How to Apply for Podcast Grants Successfully

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get funding to start a podcast?

You can secure podcast funding through multiple avenues, including grants, accelerator programs, and alternative funding methods like sponsorships, listener donations, and merchandise sales.

What is a podcast grant?

A grant is financial support awarded to individuals or organizations for projects that align with the funder’s goals. Unlike loans, grants don’t require repayment.

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 through podcast grants?

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 podcast 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 podcast grant funding for?

Grants can help cover essential podcast production costs, including microphones, headphones, editing software, and design services. Tools like Descript can streamline editing and production. Always review grant guidelines to ensure expenses are eligible.

When will I hear back after applying for podcast grants?

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, podcasters can explore various monetization strategies, including sponsorships, affiliate marketing, listener donations, merchandise sales, and digital products like online courses.

Where can I find podcast grant opportunities?

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 platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow podcasters to raise funds directly from their audience.

Platforms like Patreon enable podcasters to offer exclusive content and benefits to supporters through one-time donations or memberships.

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 my podcast?

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.

What are the common reporting requirements after receiving a podcast grant?

Typically, grant recipients must submit financial reports detailing how funds were used and provide updates on project progress. It's important to adhere to the specific reporting guidelines set by the funder.

Can podcast grants cover all production costs?

Grants can significantly offset production costs, but they may not cover everything. It's crucial to carefully review each grant's guidelines to understand which expenses are eligible, as some may have restrictions on how funds can be used.