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E-Rate Consulting for Schools and Libraries

Simplifying E-Rate for Educational Institutions Nationwide

The E-Rate process can be complex and time-consuming. Our experienced team handles everything from start to finish, helping your school get the most out of the program efficiently and accurately.

Students using technology in the classroom

The E-Rate Program Is Not Easy

E-Rate funding is critical for schools and libraries to afford internet access and essential technology, but the process is notoriously confusing. Between shifting regulations, strict deadlines, and complex forms, many schools miss out on the funding they need.

That’s where we come in. Our E-Rate specialists handle every aspect of the process from strategy and application to tracking and reimbursement, so your school receives maximum funding with minimal effort. We stay ahead of program changes so you don’t have to.

Results

E-Rate Consultants Committed to Your Success

Serving Schools Since 1998

Backed by years of E-Rate experience, we guide schools to the funding they deserve.

$20 Million Secured

We’ve helped schools secure over $20 million in E-Rate funding for technology.

Dedicated Account Team

Personalized support from an E-Rate specialist to simplify your funding process.

Our Team

Meet Our Specialists

Our team of experienced E-Rate consultants are here to guide you through every step of the process and get your school the funding it needs.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

We have been helping customers all across the United States with their E-Rate needs since 1998. Here’s what some of them have to say about our services.

Adam Hanson

Business Manager
Auburn School Department

Auburn School Department has utilized the services of The Education Consortium for many years. They have done a fabulous job in helping us navigate the cumbersome E-Rate process and maximize our available funding. In the world of public education, making the most of every available dollar is imperative. With friendly service, excellent communication and quick turnaround times, The Education Consortium has helped us meet that goal. I would highly recommend them to any school department or other public entity looking to make the most of its E-Rate funds!

Debi LeBrun

Business Administrator/Board Secretary
Garwood School District

Nicole is my go to E-Rate specialist. With everything on my plate at work, it’s nice to know that my E-Rate refund is always being taken care of without any worries. Nicole keeps me up to date on all my paperwork and makes sure I get the refund we deserve for the products we use. She’s also an absolute delight to work with. Every time we speak, she puts a smile on my face. I highly recommend working with Nicole.

George Richards

CFO
Archway Programs

Archway Programs has used Education Consortium for the past 4 years. Their staff is very educated as well as up to date with E-Rate regulations. Education Consortium has saved my organization approximately $162,000. As a result of these savings, my program’s budgets increased without the need of finding other revenue to offset increased program expenses. In addition, my IT department was able to upgrade much needed equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

E-Rate, formally known as the Schools and Libraries Program, is a federally administered initiative run by the FCC and USAC that provides discounts on broadband, internet access, and networking equipment for eligible schools and libraries across the U.S.

Eligible applicants include public, private, and charter schools, as well as public and tribal libraries. Applicants can apply individually or as part of a consortium. The discount received is based on the institution’s level of need and whether it is located in an urban or rural area.

E-Rate has two main categories. Category 1 covers internet access and broadband delivery services, including fiber, cable, and transmission services. Category 2 covers inside wiring, Wi-Fi access points, routers, switches, cabling, and maintenance for internal network infrastructure.

Discounts range from 20% to 90% depending on student poverty levels, measured by NSLP eligibility, and urban or rural classification. A discount matrix determines your rate each year.

The typical steps are competitive bidding with Form 470, vendor selection after a 28-day wait, filing Form 471, USAC review and FCDL release, service start, and then reimbursement through SPI or BEAR.

SPI means the service provider invoices the school or library at the discounted rate and is reimbursed by USAC for the rest. BEAR means the school or library pays the full amount upfront and then files Form 472 for reimbursement.

Each year, the Form 471 application window opens in mid-January and closes by late March for the following funding cycle.

Yes. Category 2 includes internal network equipment and supporting software. Many schools now use SD-WAN and network security solutions, but it is important to verify eligibility and include them correctly in the application.

Let’s Get Started

Have questions about E-Rate funding? Our specialists are here to help. Reach out today to learn how we can simplify the process and maximize your school’s funding.

790 Newtown Yardley Rd
Ste 410
Newtown, PA 18940

(215) 504-5380 - Phone

(215) 504-5047 - Fax