What is E-Rate?
E-rate is a federal reimbursement program with approximately $5.06 billion for connectivity in schools and libraries. The money is generated from the bills for voice services. The FCC Fee or Federal Universal Service Fee that you find on your phone bill goes to this program.
The program is managed by the Schools and Libraries Division (SLD). This non-profit organization was appointed by the FCC.
What does it fund?
Some examples are:
Wide Area Networks
Internet
Fiber
Network switches
Wiring
Wireless LAN controllers
Switches
Routers
Wireless access points
Maintenance of eligible services
The list of eligible items and services can be found here.
How much funding can you receive?
Funding is based on poverty and your rural or urban status. http://www.usac.org/_res/documents/sl/pdf/samples/Discount-Matrix.pdf
