Power Up Your School’s or Library’s Connectivity with E-Rate 

In today’s digital-first learning environment, fast, reliable connectivity isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a K-12 school district managing thousands of student devices or a library providing crucial digital access to your community, the E-Rate program can be your key to unlocking the infrastructure needed to support these demands.

What Is E-Rate, and Why Does It Matter? 

E-Rate, formally known as the Schools and Libraries Program of the Universal Service Fund, offers discounts of 20%–90% on broadband and network equipment. Administered by the Universal Service Administrative Co. (USAC) under the FCC, this program levels the playing field by helping educational institutions and libraries invest in high-speed internet, Wi-Fi, and internal connections that power modern learning.

Updated E-Rate Category Two (C2) Budgets: What You Need to Know 

As of Funding Period 2026-2030, schools and libraries benefit from updated pre-discount C2 budget calculations that increase their purchasing power: 

• Schools and School Districts: $201.57 per student 
• Libraries and Library Systems: $5.43 per square foot 
• Minimum Funding Floor: $30,175 for schools/libraries, and $66,385 for Tribal libraries 

Each entity can use this budget over a five-year cycle, drawing the entire amount upfront or spreading it across multiple years. If your calculated C2 budget falls below the minimum floor, you’re automatically entitled to the minimum amount.

Why Act Now? 

Beginning in Funding Year 2026, a new five-year E-Rate cycle will launch—with over $4 billion in fresh funding expected. These allocations will again be calculated based on updated student enrollment and facility square footage, offering schools and libraries another round of transformative investment power.

Planning and executing now strategically positions your institution to maximize returns from the upcoming cycle. With billions available and more on the way, there’s never been a better time to align your digital infrastructure goals with E-Rate’s powerful funding framework.

Connectivity Gaps Still Persist 

Despite progress, 98% of schools report Wi-Fi as critical, and 79% expect to upgrade their networks within three years. Yet, 95% of applicants say E-Rate doesn’t fully cover their needs, underscoring the urgency to maximize every available dollar.

 How to Maximize Your E-Rate Benefits 

To take full advantage of your E-Rate budget: 

1. Assess your infrastructure needs, from internal Wi-Fi to broadband access 
2. Use the USAC C2 Budget Tool to calculate your funding potential 
3. Leverage partner support to streamline the application and procurement process 
4. Apply early and track deadlines—service delivery must be completed by September 30, 2027 for FY2026 projects 

Final Thought 

Connectivity is the foundation of digital equity. Through strategic use of E-Rate funding, schools and libraries can build future-ready networks that serve every student, educator, and patron.

BlueAlly is here to help you navigate the complexities of E-Rate so you can focus on what matters most—education and access.