Another way to increase funding is to create revenue. In this case, government channels cannot generate revenue in the conventional sense because they cannot produce a profit. Revenue becomes the means of generating funding for more shows without sacrificing quality. Below are examples of government channels creating revenue:
Several cities have an
established a rate card for renting production facilities and equipment. In the
City of Torrance, CA, there is a rate card for commercial and for non-profit
users. In addition, they've established a charge for video copies of programs.
Sponsorships and grants
are other ways to generate revenue. Many channels have local businesses donate
food for the production crew during on-location shoots in exchange for screen
credit. Items such as furniture, props and giveaways can also be donated in
exchange for screen credit.
In Torrance, CA a local
pizza parlor donates a free pizza to the Athlete of the Week on a sports program
in exchange for screen credit. In Richmond, CA, music companies donate free CDs
and local amusement parks donate free tickets in exchange for screen credit. In
Richmond, CA, the channel facilitates a very successful toy drive during the
holiday season where toy manufacturers donate toys in exchange for on-screen
recognition. The Richmond channel also has an ad rate card. The ad rate card can be viewed
at www.kcrt.com.
The popular series "Earth Cafe" produced by the City and County of Denver is distributed across the country. The production and distribution costs are covered by a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency. Grants from Cable Positive are readily available to fund programs about HIV/AIDS.