Underwriting Guidelines
Why Underwrite?
91.3 WVST is a non-commercial, educational radio station whose license is held by Virginia State University (VSU); thus, our listeners (and staff) represent a genuine cross section of the community: business people, retirees, faculty, alumni, students and residents of the area. These are the people who will hear your message through the Tri-City Area as the enjoy our primarily jazz and R&B format with special days and times for hip hop, gospel, and traditional jazz programs. We also broadcast VSU football, basketball, baseball, softball, and other sports, along with specialty sports programs, and a host of other features and talk shows.
91.3 WVST broadcast range has a 25-30 mile radius.
How Does Underwriting Work?
91.3 WVST is owned by and located at Virginia State University (VSU). VSU is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and therefore all donations to WVST, including underwriting, are tax-deductible. As an alternative to advertising, underwriting is a way for you or your business (or non-profit organization) to gain community-wide recognition for your support of WVST and its commitment to quality and diverse programming. In addition to being a very wise investment for you, the on-air acknowledgements enhance your image as participants in, and supporters of organizations in our community. With a list of special features and programs, ranging in length from 1-2 minutes to 4 hours, there are many from which to choose that will most effectively showcase your business or organization.
You may elect to underwrite one or more regular features, programs, or dayparts. In return, your message will air during the sponsored feature, program or daypart. (see FCC Regulations and sample underwriting) Underwriting Contract commitments vary and an advance installment is required.
Contact WVST at (804) 524-6725 for WVST Underwriting Rates.
What Content may I have in my Underwriting Announcement?
91.3 WVST is committed to creating high quality, professional-sounding announcements. An Underwriter Representative will work with you to maximize your message within the parameters set by the FCC (see FCC Underwriting Guidelines attached). We are confident that you will be satisfied with our representation of your business.
To receive a complete Underwriting Packet or for information on pricing, contracts and other aspects of WVST’s sponsorship, please contact us today at (804) 524-6725.
FCC/WVST Underwriting Regulations and Policies
Due to FCC regulations of non-commercial airwaves there are several rules we must abide by in any underwriting announcement. The following is a brief description of what can and cannot be used:
- Legal or trade name (must be stated to identify the underwriter) and any, or all, of the following, may be used in acknowledgment copy: Telephone number, email address, website and location of business or area served.
- Days of operation.
- A listing of up three products or services.
- Product origin “Belgium waffles” or “french bread.”
- Intended use of product, “men’s suits” or “breakfast, lunch and dinner.”
- Product content, “silk blouses” “leather shoes.”
- Form of delivery, or method of preparation, “made from grapes” or “cooked with herbs.”
None of the following may be used in acknowledgment copy:
- Qualitative language, (handcrafted; homemade; great; wonderful).
- Comparative language, (better; most).
- “Calls to Action” (call today, come by).
- Location of business using another business as a reference, (located next to or near…).
- Number of years in business (serving the community for over 20 years).
- First-person statements, (I urge you…).
- Second-person statements, (you can stop by…).
Other Information:
Corporate non-promotional slogans may be used in underwriting acknowledgments if they are in well-established use by the business and the wording stays within the spirit of these guidelines and FCC regulations.
All underwriting copy, including corporate slogans, is subject to approval of the Station Manager of WVST-FM. Underwriting is support for current programs at WVST.
Financial support does not in any way imply that sponsors may influence program content or programming decisions.