The FCC’s Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) released a second wave of funding commitment decision letters (FCDLs) for the E-Rate Cybersecurity Pilot Program on January 28, 2026, committing nearly $10 million to 51 schools and libraries nationwide.
Combined with the first wave issued in December, the program has now committed $28.1 million, or 14% of the pilot’s $200 million budget.
Second Wave Highlights
This second funding wave shows a noticeable shift toward larger, more complex awards:
- 51 applicants funded, compared to 140 in the first wave
- Average commitment of $190,948 per applicant, up from $130,882 in Wave 1
- 103 FRNs funded, bringing the total to 325 FRNs across both waves
In short, USAC appears to be moving deeper into higher-dollar projects after an initial round of smaller approvals.
What Types of Solutions Are Being Funded?
The second wave reinforces the same solution priorities seen in December, with a strong emphasis on active cybersecurity monitoring and response:
What This Means for Applicants Still Waiting
If you filed a Cybersecurity Pilot Form 471 and have not yet received a funding decision, nothing about the second wave suggests concern.
Key points to keep in mind:
- Only 30% of applicants have been funded so far
- USAC appears to be working through applications in stages
- Larger and more complex projects are now moving forward
- Significant funding remains available
Applicants should continue to monitor communications closely and respond promptly to any Program Integrity Assurance (PIA) requests.
What Comes Next
USAC has not published a formal schedule for future funding waves, but the pattern so far suggests regular, rolling decisions rather than a single large release.
Funds For Learning will continue tracking each wave and updating E-rate Manager as new commitments become public.
Need Help Navigating the Next Steps?
Whether you’re awaiting a funding decision or preparing for post-commitment requirements, our team is here to help you stay compliant and move projects forward smoothly.
