Community Media Festival 2026 - 'Broadcasting beyond boundaries - driving innovation across FM, DAB, Online and Podcasting.'

Community Media Festival 2026. 'Broadcasting beyond boundaries. Driving innovation across FM, DAB, Online and Podcasting.'

After the success of the CMA Festival 2025 in MediaCity Salford and our Summer Gathering in Melton Mowbray, we are excited to announce that the CMA Festival 2026 will take place at The Lantern, the home of Bauer Media, on Saturday 3 October 2026.

This year the festival brings together innovators, emerging talent and experienced broadcasters for a full day of ideas, inspiration, and practical skills.

We’re thrilled to welcome radio futurologist James Cridland, who will present “AI for Radio – and Why You Shouldn’t Use It.” In this provocative session, James will demonstrate practical AI tools that help community broadcasters create great audio more easily, while challenging the assumption that generative AI is the future. His message is clear: as traditional barriers fall away, people remain our strongest advantage.

A series of powerful panels will explore the changing shape of the sector — from youth voices to later‑life broadcasters.

“Under 30s – Vision of the Future”, hosted by Lauren Underwood, will spotlight the next generation of talent, featuring Jordan Blythe (Kerrang! Radio) and Johnny Jenkins (producer of Nick Ferrari at Breakfast).

Later Life Audio and Radio Co‑operative will lead a dedicated panel on creating opportunities for people who want to start broadcasting later in life — using audio as a tool to break down barriers to inclusion and to champion lifelong creativity.

Our 101 Marketing Ideas for Your Radio Station panel will deliver practical, low‑cost strategies to help stations grow audiences and strengthen community impact.

We’re also joined by Jo Russell (Magic Radio / Greatest Hits 80s), who will share insights from decades of commercial radio success. Community podcast expert Vic Turnbull will run a session on creating purposeful, funded podcasts that deliver real community value.

Funding is a major focus this year, with our Funding Futures panel looking beyond the Community Radio Fund. Delegates will receive guidance on preparing strong bids, alongside advice on wider grant opportunities and new income streams for community media organisations.

The festival will also celebrate the people who make community media thrive, with our Community Champions Awards, delivered in partnership with Sound Vision.

The Community Media Festival 2026 promises a full day of innovation, connection and practical insight for everyone passionate about community broadcasting — whatever stage of the journey they’re on.

– Inspiring speakers and panel sessions.

– Networking opportunities to connect, share and recharge.

– and much more to be announced!

Your ticket includes refreshments and lunch.

Description supplied by the event organiser.