Online E-rate Management

EdFunds is an online e-rate tool that enables schools and districts to effectively manage requests, awards, and utilizations of e-rate funds. Our approach enable districts to receive timely, accurate information on e-rate funding via the internet from the Schools and Libraries Commission (SLC), and it simplifies the process of pursuing and receiving e-rate funds by tracking 470 and 471 applications, as well as tracking the funds through utilization. We provide graphic reports showing percentages of award and utilization at a federal, state, and district level.

E-rate, or more precisely, the Schools and Libraries Universal Service Support Mechanism, provides discounts to assist most schools and libraries in the United States to obtain affordable telecommunications and Internet access. Three service categories are funded: Telecommunications Services, Internet Access, and Internal Connections. Discounts range from 20% to 90% of the costs of eligible services, depending on the level of poverty and the urban/rural status of the population served. Eligible schools, school districts, and libraries may apply individually or as part of a consortium.

Schools across the nation are challenged to apply for e-rate funding from the federal government. The process of applying for and receiving e-rate funding can be difficult and complex. There are multiple deadlines and requirements. When not managed properly, e-rate can render even the most thorough efforts futile.

This program has been in effect since 1998. We have taken the data provided by the federal government over the last 8 years and tabulated it to provide information relevant to both vendors pursuing business in the education space and educators tracking utilization of their fund requests.