The E-rate program continues to be a vital resource for schools and libraries, providing essential discounts on internet services and equipment. For the upcoming Funding Year 2025 (FY2025), USAC has issued an updated the Form 470 including several new features designed to streamline the process.
Wi-Fi Hotspots and Mobile Internet Access
Wi-Fi Hotspot devices and services are now eligible for the E-rate program, to accommodate this USAC has added the option to request Wi-Fi hotspot devices and mobile internet access on the FY2025 Form 470. They have also introduced new sections to request bid for Wi-Fi on school buses, which became eligible for the E-rate program shortly before FY2024.
Cancel Unused or Unwanted Forms
If you’ve ever started a Form 470 and later found it unnecessary, you’ll appreciate this next update. For FY2025, applicants now have the ability to cancel unused or unwanted Form 470s. This new feature can help prevent confusion or mistakes during the application process.
RFP Uploads After Submitting
Another useful update this year is the increased flexibility with Request for Proposal (RFP) uploads. In the past, if you didn’t include an RFP when submitting your Form 470, you were often out of luck. Now, applicants can add an RFP even after the Form 470 has been posted. When uploading a new RFP, the system will prompt you to specify whether the update introduces a “cardinal change,” meaning a significant alteration to the project’s original scope. If you confirm that it does, the 28-day competitive bidding process will restart.
As you prepare to apply for E-rate funding using the FY2025 Form 470, remember to take advantage of these new features to make the process smoother. Start by carefully planning your needs, whether it’s Wi-Fi hotspots, school bus Wi-Fi, or other services. Be sure to use the flexibility of adding or updating an RFP, if necessary but be mindful of any significant changes that might require restarting the bidding process.
