CATEGORY ONE
Connections to the internet
Data transmission and internet access form the first category. Identify the locations, capacity, service term, provider handoffs, and installation dependencies before defining the requested service.
Schools & libraries
Connect the learning.
Plan the infrastructure.
Bring connectivity requirements, purchasing, installation, and ongoing operations into one practical E-Rate conversation. Start with what your schools or libraries need to deliver.
01 / Understand the program
Funding starts with
eligible connectivity needs.
E-Rate helps eligible schools and libraries obtain supported broadband services and equipment. Eligibility, funding, and program obligations depend on the applicant, service, and funding year.
CATEGORY TWO
Connections inside the building
Internal connections, managed internal broadband services, and basic maintenance of internal connections form the second category. Depending on the current rules, eligible items can include switches, routers, wireless access points, and cabling.
Review the current Eligible Services List from USAC for the applicable funding year. Mixed eligible and ineligible components may require cost allocation; a broader technology project is not automatically eligible in full.
02 / Build a supportable environment
Bring the technical details
into focus.
Benchmark’s role is defined by the engagement and purchasing process. We can discuss technical scope, equipment, implementation, and support without assuming an award or funding approval.
01 / ASSESS
Current network & site readiness
Document circuits, network equipment, closets, cabling, wireless coverage, power, building access, and known service issues. Identify capacity needs and which dependencies sit with the applicant, carrier, facilities team, or other suppliers.
02 / SPECIFY
Clear technical requirements
Define locations, quantities, compatibility, configuration, installation, acceptance testing, and support responsibilities. Keep assumptions visible so proposals can be reviewed against the actual operating need.
03 / SOURCE
Equipment & cost detail
Coordinate product requirements, service line items, delivery conditions, and separately funded work. Benchmark Procurement can help connect sourcing with the configuration, logistics, and records needed for the project.
04 / CONNECT
Connectivity options
Broadlink can help review internet and connectivity options for specific addresses. Service availability, scope, contracting entity, and any program participation requirements must be confirmed before a commitment.
05 / INSTALL
Deployment & verification
Plan work around school or library operations, equipment lead times, access permissions, and existing systems. Agree on installation records, configuration documentation, testing, and acceptance before the rollout.
06 / SUPPORT
Handoff & lifecycle
Clarify the maintenance scope, support contacts, escalation process, equipment records, and ownership after implementation. Distinguish any eligible maintenance service from general IT support and unrelated technology work.
03 / Know the sequence
Keep the applicant’s process clear.
The applicant owns its application and competitive procurement process. If Benchmark is a potential bidder, the engagement must preserve an open, fair competition and the separation of applicant and supplier responsibilities.
Current deadlines and detailed requirements belong with the applicable funding-year guidance and the applicant’s program adviser.
- Establish the need
Review applicant eligibility, locations, existing services, technical requirements, and the funding year.
- Run the competitive process
The applicant posts FCC Form 470 and required supporting materials, then follows the applicable waiting period and bid evaluation rules.
- Select and apply
After the required procurement steps, the applicant selects the provider and submits its funding request through FCC Form 471.
- Review, deliver, and document
USAC reviews the request. Service delivery, applicable certifications, invoicing, and records follow the approved scope and program requirements.
See USAC’s applicant process and competitive bidding guidance for the official steps.
04 / Before we talk
Useful questions.
Clear starting points.
Bring the school or library locations, current equipment and circuits, known gaps, target funding year, procurement stage, and project schedule. Identify the applicant’s program contact and any adviser involved.
Include the solicitation or published bid information when available, along with instructions for how suppliers should communicate.
Who can use E-Rate?
The program is for eligible schools and libraries. An organization must meet the program’s eligibility requirements; public-sector status alone is not enough. Higher education institutions should not assume eligibility based on being an educational organization.
Are computers, software platforms, and voice automatically covered?
No. A school’s broader technology plan can include mrk computing, AperVue software, voice services, and other work that falls outside supported E-Rate categories. Review each proposed item against the applicable Eligible Services List and separate ineligible costs.
Does Benchmark guarantee funding or approval?
No. The program administrator determines funding through its review process. A proposal, equipment selection, or conversation with Benchmark is not a funding commitment or eligibility determination.
Can we start before we have a complete inventory?
Yes. Begin with known sites, service problems, existing provider information, and the decisions ahead. The initial discussion can establish what must be documented and which responsibilities belong with your team, adviser, or suppliers.
Can this be part of a larger technology project?
Yes. Keep the scopes and costs clear. Connectivity, computing, software, facilities work, and general support may have different funding sources, purchasing requirements, delivery dependencies, and operating owners.
05 / Official program resources
Go deeper with USAC.
This overview keeps the planning information here on Public Sector. These clearly labeled links open the program administrator’s current guidance.
Program guidance reviewed September 28, 2026. Consult current official guidance for the funding year in question.
Start with the environment
Turn connectivity needs into a clear scope.
Explore our K–12 solutions and contracting and procurement approach, or bring your requirements to the team.