E-rate Commentary

August 12, 2025

Cybersecurity Pilot: What You Need to Know (and Do) Right Now

If you’re knee-deep in the FCC’s Cybersecurity Pilot Program and wondering what exactly to focus on next, you’re not alone. With little precedent to lean on and a whole lot...

August 11, 2025

Join Funds For Learning at AnchorNets 2025

Funds For Learning is proud to participate in AnchorNets 2025, the leading national conference focused on broadband policy, funding, and innovation for schools, libraries, healthcare providers, and other community anchor...

by John Harrington

Awareness First: The Leadership Discipline of Naming the Problem

We’ve all been there. Someone offers us a solution, but we’re not convinced there’s even a problem. Maybe we nod politely. Maybe we tune out. Either way, the idea doesn’t...

by Patrick Burke

Get Ahead: Plan Your Funding Year 2026 Form 470 the Smart Way

The E-rate program helps schools and libraries get discounts on internet and network equipment. With the 5-year Category Two budget reset and the Funding Year 2026 Form 470 being available, it is...

by John Harrington

Leadership Insight: Scaling Systems is Easy. Scaling Trust is the Real Work.

Recently, I’ve been deep in strategic planning: launching platforms, refining outreach, preparing for policy windows, and guiding leadership transitions. On paper, it’s the kind of work that looks like systems...

Don’t Let Your E-rate Melt: Mid Summer Checkpoint

School’s almost back, the popsicles are half‑melted, and USAC is still cranking out decisions. Here’s what you can do right now—before the back-to-school scramble kicks in. “Did I get funded?”...

by John Harrington

Connection Before Content: The Leadership Lesson We Can’t Afford to Miss

“Connection before content.” It’s one of those phrases that sounds simple, but carries a surprising amount of weight. I’ve found that living by it — not just agreeing with it...

FY 2026 Competitive Bidding Has Begun — 3 Smart Moves to File Form 470 with Confidence

The FY 2026 FCC Form 470 portal is already live in EPC, giving schools and libraries a full year-plus to run competitive bidding before next spring’s application window. An...