history

Developing Radio Partners was formally established as a nonprofit organization in 2004, but its origins are in Bill Siemering’s first-hand experience and research in media development over the last twelve years. 

After 20-plus years of experience in public radio management and program development in the U.S., Bill received a MacArthur Foundation fellowship in 1993 that afforded him an opportunity to turn his attention elsewhere in the world.  From 1994 – 2004, he worked as a consultant and staff member with the Open Society Institute to develop independent media in new democracies.

From his experiences working with local radio stations in countries such as Mongolia, South Africa, and Sierra Leone, Bill witnessed their tremendous potential as a positive force for community development; however, Bill also saw firsthand that radio’s full potential as a community development tool was largely unrealized.

Developing Radio Partners (DRP) was created to help broadcasters build healthy stations that strengthen communities.  Siemering was assisted in founding DRP by Rachel Thompson, a former reporter and internet executive who also consulted with independent electronic media for OSI.  DRP focuses on radio, as well as its relation to new media. 

No broadcasters face greater challenges than those in developing countries: they serve listeners in some of the most economically and politically fragile countries, often relying upon volunteers and staffs with limited or no broadcasting experience.  In the prosperous United States, public broadcasters looked to the federal government, and individuals for support; neither of these resources is available to these stations. 

Developing Radio Partners therefore seeks new partnerships for new solutions.