Emergency Connectivity Fund Program to Re-open Applications

On August 25, 2021, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) announced that requests for funding under the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program’s initial filing window amounted to $5.137 billion out of the allocated $7.1 billion. The Emergency Connectivity Fund Program, created under the American Rescue Plan, can be used for laptops and tablets, as well as Wi-Fi hotspots, modems, routers and broadband connections for students and school staff to use off-campus.

The FCC will open a second application filing window for schools and libraries to request funding from the roughly $2 billion in program funds remaining. The second window will open on September 28 and run until October 13.

While the specifics of the second round of application have not been announced, it is assumed that the first rounds guidelines will apply. Details pertaining to Catholic schools applications may be found here on the NCEA website.

Additional information will be provided as it becomes available. Meanwhile, schools should consult with students and families about their needs for equipment and connectivity to be able to engage in remote learning and completion of homework assignments that require internet use.