If you’ve ever tried to apply for E-Rate funding, I’m sure you are well aware of how time consuming and difficult the application process is. Well, all that might be changing very soon!

The FCC has proposed new E-Rate rules designed to simplify the program and bring discounts on networking services to more schools. Also, the FCC plans on increasing the funds available by 3% – the first time an increase has occurred in its ten year existence.

In addition to the increase in funding, the FCC plans to make the process more user-friendly by streamlining the application and competitive-bidding processes for telecommunications and internet services. For example, schools will no longer have to submit a technology plan if they’re applying only for Priority One discounts on telecommunication services and internet access.

Has your school ever applied for E-Rate funding? If so, how was the process for you? How do you feel about the FCC only increasing the budget by 3% after 10 years? Share your opinion on the School Announcement Blog!

For more information on all the changes the FCC plans on making to the E-Rate program, click here to read the article.