Today the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) opened the initial filing window for the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a $7.17 billion federal program that will help schools and libraries provide the technology tools and services their students and 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 for off-campus use by students, school staff, and library patrons.
During this application filing window, eligible schools and libraries, and consortia of schools and libraries, can submit requests for funding to purchase eligible equipment and services between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022.
Schools, libraries, and consortia of schools and libraries that are eligible for support from the Commission’s E-Rate program are eligible for Emergency Connectivity Fund support. The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) will serve as the program’s administrator with FCC oversight.
Congress authorized funding for the Emergency Connectivity Fund as part of the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. In compliance with the Act and after receiving input from a wide variety of stakeholders the FCC adopted a Report and Order establishing the rules and policies for the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program on May 10, 2021.
You can view an FCC Fact Sheet on the program here.
You can also view a set of Frequently Asked Questions on the program here.
More information about the program is available at emergencyconnectivityfund.org, including information about how to apply. You can sign up here to receive program updates and information about future training sessions. Help with program questions is also available by calling 800-234-9781 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Central Time.
