Underwriters differ a lot from advertising but the same outcome can still be achieved. With underwriting we make announcements sharing your message and letting the community know about your business’s support for student media. Underwriting is a great way to get exposure and showing your support for student-run media is always a great PR move.

As an NCE we legally cannot advertise on-air and according to the FCC, underwriters may not contain the following; 

• • A.  Announcements containing price information (including free) are not permissible.  This would include any announcement of interest rate information or other indication of savings or value associated with the product.  An example of such an announcement is:
    • — “7.7% interest rate available now.”
  • B.  Announcements containing a call to action are not permissible.  Examples of such announcements are:
    • — “Stop by our showroom to see a model”;
    • — “Try product X next time you buy oil.”

• • C.  Announcements containing an inducement to buy, sell, rent, or lease are not permissible.  Examples of such announcements are:
    • — “Six months’ free service”;
    • — “A bonus available this week”;
    • — “Special gift for the first 50 visitors.”

Underwriter announcements are only informative (not promotional) and may contain things like;

• • Name, location, website address, phone number, or other identifying information
    • — “Thank you to Jane Doe’s Bakery for their continued support of WNYO and college broadcasters. Jane Doe’s Bakery is located at 1234 State Route 104 behind the car wash. Information about Jane Doe’s Bakery can be found at 315-555-5555.”
  • Neutral descriptions about the types of products or services you offer
    • — “Support for WNYO’s coverage of Oswego Laker’s Hockey comes from John Doe’s Auto Shop. John Doe’s Auto Shop has been servicing the Oswego community for over 30 years and performs oil changes, tire rotations, and state vehicle inspections. They are located at 1234 State Route 104, and can be found online at johnsmithauto.xyz. Their phone number is 315-555-5555,”