New FCC Emergency Connectivity Fund to Help Schools and Libraries
This week the FCC announced the initial filing window for the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a $7.17 billion program that will help schools and libraries provide the tools and services their communities need for remote learning during the COVID-19 emergency period.
From June 29, 2021 to August 13, 2021, eligible schools and libraries can apply for financial support to purchase connected devices like laptops and tablets, Wi-Fi hotspots, modems, routers, and broadband connectivity to meet unmet needs for off-campus use by students, school staff, and library patrons during the COVID-19 emergency period. During this application filing window, eligible schools and libraries, in addition to consortia of schools and libraries, can submit requests for funding to purchase eligible equipment and services between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022.
You can view an FCC Fact Sheet on the program by visiting: https://www.fcc.gov/sites/
The FCC will host a webinar on June 25, at 2 pm ET on fcc.gov/live to provide an overview of the Emergency Connectivity Fund, including applicant eligibility, supported equipment and services, reasonable support amounts, and the application and invoicing processes.
Additionally, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) will host a series of outreach and training sessions about the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. You may register for one of the training sessions using the links provided below.
- Wednesday, June 16, at 2 pm ET: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview Webinar for E-rate Participants – Register
- Thursday, June 17, at 2 pm ET: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview Webinar for New (Non E-rate) Participants – Register
- Thursday, June 17 @ 4:00 p.m. ET: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview for Tribal Applicants – Register
- Wednesday, June 23 @ 3:00 p.m. ET: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview for Potential Applicants – Register
More information about the program is available at emergencyconnectivityfund.org, including information about how to apply and what schools and libraries can do now to prepare. Schools and libraries can sign up to receive programs updates and information about future training sessions. Help with program questions is also available by calling 800-234-9781 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.
USAC will serve as the program’s administrator with FCC oversight. Congress authorized funding for the Emergency Connectivity Fund as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. In compliance with the Act and after receiving input from a wide variety of stakeholders, on May 10, 2021, the FCC adopted a Report and Order, establishing the rules and policies for the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program.
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