E-Rate and CTF Funding

E-Rate & California
Teleconnect Fund

Maximize federal and state telecom discounts — up to 90% off with E-Rate, plus an additional 50% off with the California Teleconnect Fund. We manage both programs for you.

Select Program:

E-Rate: Schools & Libraries Program

E-Rate: Federal Technology Funding for Schools & Libraries

The Schools and Libraries (E-Rate) Program provides discounts of 20–90% to assist eligible schools and libraries in obtaining affordable internet access and telecommunications services. Administered by USAC and overseen by the FCC, E-Rate has distributed over $50 billion in funding since 1997.

  • Up to 90% discount on eligible technology services
  • Administered by USAC (Universal Service Administrative Company)
  • Available to all K-12 public and private schools
  • Available to all public libraries and library systems
  • Funding window opens annually — application deadlines are strict
  • Category 1: Broadband internet and WAN connectivity
  • Category 2: Internal network infrastructure (Wi-Fi, switches, cabling)
CHECK YOUR E-RATE ELIGIBILITY
School technology
E-RATE KEY FACTS
Up to 90%
Discount on eligible services
$4B+
Distributed annually
$167
Per student (Cat 2, 5-yr)
1997
Program established

E-Rate & CTF: Better Together

E-Rate (Federal)

Up to 90% off
  • Federal program — FCC / USAC
  • Schools and libraries nationwide
  • Broadband, WAN, and internal network
  • Discount based on poverty level and rurality
  • Annual funding window with strict deadlines

CA Teleconnect Fund

50% off
  • California state program — CPUC
  • Schools, libraries, colleges, hospitals, CBOs
  • Internet access and digital transmission
  • Flat 50% discount for all eligible organizations
  • Applications through CPUC eCAP portal

Combined Savings

Maximum discount
  • E-Rate and CTF can be applied to the same services
  • CTF applies to the non-discounted E-Rate portion
  • California organizations can significantly reduce net cost
  • Silent Partner coordinates both applications simultaneously
  • One point of contact for federal and state funding

Note: CTF discounts apply to the non-E-Rate-discounted portion of eligible services. Stacking eligibility depends on the specific services, providers, and organizational type. Silent Partner will assess your specific situation and identify the maximum combined savings available.

Maximize Your E-Rate & CTF Savings

Contact us for a free eligibility assessment covering both federal E-Rate and California Teleconnect Fund programs.

GET A FREE ELIGIBILITY CHECK