Mosaic451 Helps Schools Take Advantage of Deep Federal E-rate Technology Discounts

MSP and cybersecurity specialist Mosaic451 is taking a stand to help schools boost their communications technologies and accessibility. The company announced it will be helping school districts and libraries procure E-rate funding for affordable broadband access, telecom solutions and Internet services.

The federal E-rate program has set aside around $30 billion over two decades, dedicated exclusively to helping schools and libraries keep up with technology and telecom advances. The process to file for E-rate funding, however, can be complex and challenging and that’s where Mosaic451 comes in. The company said it has the personnel and resources to help guide educational institutions through the application and procurement process.

"E-rate applicants still have time to file the necessary forms to participate in the E-rate program," said Chris Squatritto, vice president at Mosaic451. "The best way to understand what's new, what's required, and what's changed is to read the E-rate Modernization Orders, which are available on the website of the USAC, the government body that manages the E-rate program.”

"Some districts have lost funding by making seemingly harmless mistakes such as accepting gifts or swag from vendors trying to win a contract for services,” he added. “Any gifts totaling more than $30 from a source, or $21 for an event, can jeopardize funding."

In a nutshell, E-rate funding lets educators take advantage of deep discounts for purchasing technology equipment, solutions and services. But the application process can be complex and cumbersome, with first applicants receiving discounts during the first round of approvals. Deadlines are strictly enforced as well, and a late application could cause a school to lose out on significant savings. Another complication is deciding which categories to apply for, since schools can’t have “redundant services” for technologies they already possess. They are also expected to meet compliance mandates and be able to show they have solid plans in place to implement any technology or solutions obtained through the program.

That’s where a company like Mosaic451 can be a valuable asset, since the MSP specializes in both educational technology and solutions as well as the E-rate funding process. The company not only guides schools and school districts through the E-rate process, but helps them procure eligible equipment, services and technologies to implement everything from firewalls to wireless networking to cybersecurity solutions.