Island Radio Expedition Foundation Ceases Operation

[IK0ZCW]

The Island Radio Expedition Foundation (IREF), the only expedition funding organization specifically focused on IOTA expeditions, is ceasing operation. Founded in 1999 by Buzz NI5DX (SK), Buzz N5UR, Mike AB5EB and Mike AD5A after the H75A expedition to NA-209. IREF, through it’s donors, has contributed more than $80K to IOTA Expeditioners over the years. One of the primary reasons for ceasing operations is that the funding model for expeditions has changed. OQRS has given expeditioners a much easier tool for raising money than the traditional methods of the past. Accordingly requests were down as were contributions. IREF is proud of it’s legacy, but times have changed and IREF’s impact has been diminished over the past few years.

IREF, would also like to thank it’s Board for their work over the years. The Boards includes Buzz, N5UR, Don, W9DC, Mike, K9AJ, Bob, WB2YQH, Jose, CT1EEB, Charles, M0OXO and Jim, JA9IFF. Also the other officers, Mike AB5EB, Vice President and Dragan, K0AP, Secretary.

Mike AD5A
President, IREF