Business models

Most on-air stations broadcast the same commercial advertisements on their internet radio players. The cost is embedded in the advertiser's payment to the station.

Others, which have no advertisements, like the BBC, simply send out their stream. The BBC is funded by the Television license which must be paid by all owners of a television in the United Kingdom. This fee funds the operation of the BBC's television radio and internet services. It should be noted however that the BBC is looking at methods of charging international users of its content through its commercial arm BBC Worldwide.

Other stations and shows charge a subscription monthly fee or a direct per-program fee for the internet radio broadcast.