E-Rate Funding Support Services
SPIN 143024945
Apex supports E‑Rate funding by planning and implementing eligible network and communications infrastructure—including firewalls and intrusion detection/prevention systems—so schools and libraries can improve secure, reliable connectivity.
What is E-Rate?
E-Rate (short for Education Rate) is a federal program in the United States that provides discounts on broadband, internet access, and internal network equipment to eligible K-12 schools and public libraries. It provides discounts ranging from 20-90% on eligible services.
* The discount rate is based on the percentage of students eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and whether the school is in an urban or rural area.
Who is Eligible?
Elementary & Secondary Schools
Public, private, and charter schools with non-profit status can apply.
School Districts
Districts can apply on behalf of multiple schools.
Libraries
Public libraries and library consortia meeting the statutory definition of a library.
Consortia
Groups of schools and/or libraries that band together for procurement.
What Services Are Covered?
Category 2
Internal Connections, Wi-Fi Infrastructure and Basic Maintenance of Internal Networks.
Specific Examples:
- Cabling
- Firewalls
- Switches
- Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
- Wireless Access Points and Controllers