 |
 |
Hello! Yesterday, the FCC announced a third opportunity to apply for Emergency Connectivity Funds (ECF). <https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-381645A1.pdf> Here are the basics of what you need to know: * The application window will open on Thursday, April 28th and close on Friday, May 13th. * They anticipate there being around $1 billion available for commitment and disbursement, and this will likely be the last round to apply. * Eligible schools and libraries can submit requests to purchase eligible equipment and services between July 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023. * Remember - this is for off-site services and equipment. * Eligible equipment includes Wi-Fi hotspots, modems (including air cards), routers, devices that combine a modem and router, and connected devices (laptop and tablet computers). Schools and libraries can also receive funding for commercially available broadband service that provides a fixed or mobile broadband connection for off-campus use by students, school staff or library patrons. Review the Eligible Services List<https://www.fcc.gov/sites/default/files/ecf_esl.pdf> for additional guidance on the equipment and services eligible for funding under the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. For more information about the Post-Commitment and Reimbursement processes, visit emergencyconnectivityfund.org<http://www.emergencyconnectivityfund.org/>. A helpful guide the FCC put together on how to best prepare for applying for these funds is also attached. Remember, you can sign up to stay informed about the Emergency Connectivity Fund<https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/6296809/emergency-connectivity-fund/> and receive invitations for future training sessions. Please also review additional Frequently Asked Questions<https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-connectivity-fund-program-basics> about the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. Liz Thigpen Schreck | Director Ocoee River Regional Library State E-rate Coordinator for Public Libraries Office of Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett 718 George St., NW, Athens, TN 37303 P. (423) 745-5194 - office; (423) 649-1583 - direct Regional Toll Free - (855) 692-8186 Fax (423) 649-1501 [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]> This electronic mail may be subject to the Tennessee Public Records Act, Tenn. Code Ann. §10-7-503 et seq. Any reply to this email may also be subject to this act. The mission of the Office of the Secretary of State is to exceed the expectations of our customers, the taxpayers, by operating at the highest levels of accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and accountability in a customer-centered environment. Secretary of State Social Media Links: www.facebook.com/TennesseeSecretaryofState<http://www.facebook.com/TennesseeSecretaryofState> www.facebook.com/TNStateLibraryArchives/timeline<http://www.facebook.com/TNStateLibraryArchives/timeline>