Austin Airwaves is an independent, Austin, Texas-based non-profit media group founded by public radio advocate Jim Ellinger (often known as "Radio Jim"). 

The organization specializes in building, financing, and supplying solar-powered and community-based FM radio stations in developing nations and post-disaster areas worldwide

 

Key accomplishments and projects include:

• Disaster Relief Broadcasting: During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, they secured an emergency FCC permit to create a public safety station at the Houston Astrodome. They also traveled to Haiti after the devastating earthquake to help the first radio stations get back on the air.

• Global Community Building: The non-profit has traveled to over 20 countries—including Mozambique, Tunisia, and Cameroon—to install independent community and public safety stations.

• National Support: Austin Airwaves also helps support existing independent radio stations around the United States, such as donating funds to assist hurricane-damaged WHIV in New Orleans or KTIM 89.1 FM in La Grange, Texas.