Mission Telecom Matches FCC E-Rate Cuts to Safeguard Affordable Wi-Fi for Schools and Libraries

Mission Telecom, a nonprofit telecommunications provider and grantmaker dedicated to expanding digital equity, today announced a new offer to help schools and libraries remain whole after losing federal E-Rate funding for Wi-Fi hotspots and school bus connectivity. Under the new offer, Mission Telecom is honoring the post-discount applicant share of cost on Form 471, not the quote cost from the provider, keeping schools and libraries connected by covering the loss of E-rate subsidies. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s recent decision to eliminate E-rate program funding coverage for school bus Wi-Fi and mobile hotspots worsens the digital divide across the country, especially for students in low-income and rural communities. Without these resources, millions of students and lifelong learners risk falling behind. To qualify for Mission Telecom’s new offer, schools and libraries need to complete this sign-up form and subsequently provide a copy of their E-Rate Form 471 for hotspots or bus Wi-Fi. Mission Telecom will then match their post-discount cost for broadband, guaranteeing unlimited 4G/5G Wi-Fi service at the same rate they would have paid under E-Rate. Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with partners and participants praising the program’s ease and impact.