During 2013, Common Frequencies, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community radio,[5] applied for and was granted a low-power FM license from the FCC.

[citation needed] They discussed the mission of the station, which was to create an outlet for music and art enthusiasts to gain access to the airwaves.

[citation needed] Between January and April 2015, Freeform Portland hosted benefit shows and prepared for the launch of their Indiegogo campaign.

Ken Freedman, general manager of WFMU, recorded a video in support of Freeform Portland during the initial fundraising period of the station, stressing the importance of the community building aspect of the genre.

Freeform Portland continued to search for a future home during the months of June through October 2015.