Upgrade your school’s network. Let E-rate pay most of it.
E-rate is the federal program that discounts internet and internal network equipment for schools and libraries. Tech for Edu is a USAC-approved Category 2 service provider, with hundreds of E-rate networks deployed for Florida K-12 schools.
Up to 85% covered
Category 2 provider
How much could E-rate cover?
Your Category 2 discount depends on how many students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, and whether your school is urban or rural.
Estimate only, based on the USAC discount matrix. Actual funding depends on your school’s eligibility, its five-year Category 2 budget and USAC review.
Who qualifies?
Schools
Elementary and secondary schools, public or private, run as not-for-profit, with an endowment under $50 million.
Libraries
Not-for-profit libraries eligible for state library agency assistance, with a budget separate from any school.
Consortia
Groups of schools and libraries that bid and apply together on behalf of their members.
Non-instructional facilities
School or library buildings without classrooms or public areas, in certain cases.
What E-rate covers
Getting internet to your building
Internet access and data transmission services, usually from your internet provider.
Getting it to every classroom
Internal connections, managed internal broadband services and basic maintenance: switches, routers, firewalls, wireless access points and controllers, cabling, and network installation.
How the E-rate year works
The process runs on a yearly cycle. Funding years start July 1, and the application window usually opens in January.
- 1
Plan your project
Decide what the network needs and check your Category 2 budget.
- 2
School posts Form 470
This opens competitive bidding. It stays open at least 28 days.
- 3
Providers bid
We respond with a design and price. Price must be the main factor in your choice.
- 4
School files Form 471
The funding request, filed during USAC’s application window.
- 5
USAC review
USAC reviews the application and issues a funding commitment.
- 6
We install and invoice
After Form 486, we build the network and bill USAC for the discounted share.
Steps marked in mint are where Tech for Edu is directly involved. FCC rules keep service providers out of preparing your Form 470 and 471. We can refer you to independent E-rate consultants for those.
Common questions
Can private and religious schools get E-rate?
Yes, if they are not-for-profit, provide elementary or secondary education under Florida law, and have an endowment under $50 million.
Does the school have to pay anything?
Yes. The school pays the share not covered by the discount. For example, at an 80% discount the school pays 20% of eligible costs.
Are cameras and door access covered?
No. E-rate Category 2 covers network equipment and cabling. We install campus security systems too, funded through your budget or other grants.
Planning a network upgrade?
Start early. A 15-minute call now helps you get ready before the next filing window.