The three-year FCC Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program (CPP) provides $200 million in funding for selected schools and libraries to purchase a wide variety of cybersecurity services and equipment. The goal of the Cybersecurity Pilot Program is to determine how much it will cost to make cybersecurity tools and services E-rate eligible and, ultimately, whether the cost can be covered by the Universal Service Fund. Additional information is available at the FCC's CPP website.
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The Cybersecurity Pilot Program uses a new Form 484 that schools and libraries will complete for their initial application. The FCC and USAC will use the information supplied on the 484 as a primary factor in selecting applicants. Once selected, applicants will then use many of the forms (e.g., 470, 471) and processes that E-rate applicants are already familiar with.
Funding
Annually, schools and districts can receive up to $13.60 per student with a minimum of $15,000 and a maximum of $1.5 million. (i.e. $15,000 x 3 year pilot = $45,000)
Annually, libraries and library systems can receive $15,000 per library up to 11 sites (i.e., branches). Library systems with more than 11 sites will be eligible for up to $175,000.
Annual funding for consortia: In a consortium of schools and libraries, both will be eligible for funds based on the amounts cited immediately above. Consortia solely comprised of schools are subject to a maximum of $1.5 million. Consortia solely comprised of libraries are subject to a $175,000 maximum for library systems.
Note: The above amounts are pre-discount. Pilot participants will use the E-rate Category 1 discount matrix to determine their discount. Per the matrix, a 90% discount will be the maximum participants can receive.
Important Dates for Applicants
June 27, 2024 (2pm) - USAC Getting Ready Webinar, Registration Link
Fall 2024 - Application window opens
Other Helpful Resources
ALA Cybersecurity Pilot Program FAQ
USAC Cybersecurity Pilot Program Web Page - Training and Application Specifics
The full order is published in the WC Docket No. 23-234.