About the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program

The Emergency Connectivity Fund Program will provide funding to schools and libraries for the reasonable costs of laptop and tablet computers; Wi-Fi hotspots; routers; modems; and broadband Internet connections for use by students, school staff, and library patrons at locations that include locations other than a school or library. Funding is limited to students, school staff, and library patrons who would otherwise lack access to connected devices and broadband Internet services sufficient to engage in remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the third application filing window, eligible schools and libraries could apply for funding for Emergency Connectivity Fund eligible equipment and/or services purchased between July 1, 2022 and December 31, 2023 to meet the remote learning needs of students, school staff, and library patrons who would otherwise lack access to connected devices and broadband connections sufficient to engage in remote learning during the upcoming 2022-2023 school year.

On May 10, 2021, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted a Report and Order (FCC 21-58) establishing the rules and procedures for the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. Congress appropriated $7.17 billion for the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program, which USAC will administer.