Emergency Connectivity Fund Application Opens June 29

Jun 16, 2021

Cartoon illustration: wifi symbol surrounded by people using gadgets and laptops against a cityscape backgroundThe FCC has 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 serve the 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.

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 American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Outreach and training

The FCC will host a webinar on June 25, at 12 p.m. MDT 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. No registration is required for this event.

Additionally, 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 12 p.m. MDT: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview Webinar for E-rate Participants – Register
  • Thursday, June 17, at 12 p.m. MDT: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview Webinar for New (Non E-rate) Participants – Register
  • Thursday, June 17, at 2:00 p.m. MDT: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview for Tribal Applicants – Register
  • Wednesday, June 23, at 1:00 p.m. MDT: Emergency Connectivity Fund Overview for Potential Applicants – Register

More information

View an FCC Fact Sheet on the program.

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 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. MT.

If you have a question about this or any other article, please contact us at statelibrary@wyo.gov

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