Every year schools and libraries can enhance their network technology, making sure their students and teachers can have a secure Internet connection to access digital resources. Having a reliable Internet connection is important, and that's where E-rate funding can play a crucial role.
What is E-Rate?
E-Rate is the commonly used name for the Schools and Libraries Program administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the FCC. There are four universal programs, and ICN participates in two of the programs: E-Rate and Rural Health Care.
Using an application and competitive bidding process, the federal E-rate program helps schools and libraries pay for the internet and telecommunication connections they need for the incoming school year. If an application is approved, the funding is received via a discount percentage between 20-90% on the eligible service. As a result, the digital divide will be reduced, network technology in the education sector will be upgraded, and digital learning environments will be improved.
The ICN has participated in the Universal Service Fund (USF) program since 2001.
- In Fiscal Year 2024, USAC provided funds for discounts to 156 schools and libraries saving over $3.6 million on data services through the E-Rate Program.
What ICN Services Qualify for E-Rate?
The ICN assists numerous schools and libraries each year in establishing secure connections to the ICN Network, which covers all 99 counties in Iowa. ICN services eligible for E-Rate funding include: Managed Firewall Services: Palo Alto and Fortinet offerings, Ethernet, and Internet all of which are listed as eligible services on the USAC list.
➡️ To find out more about these services, contact your ICN Account Consultant today and get your questions answered before you begin the process.
How to Start the Process?
There is a process to follow in order to qualify for E-rate discounts.
- If you are an education entity, contact the Iowa Department of Education for assistance in starting the process.
- If you are a library, contact the State Library of Iowa for help. Receiving the discounts on network infrastructure solutions is worth the effort to obtain the services your library or school needs for the benefit of the students, instructors, and staff both now and in the future.