FCC's ACP Pilot Programs Coming Soon

The Federal Communications Commission set guidelines for two pilot programs aimed at increasing both awareness of and participation in the Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households (and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands). On October 11, the FCC provided an update on the implementation of the pilot programs. The short of it is that the FCC is not yet accepting applications to participate in the pilot programs, but there are things eligible entities could be doing now to prepare their applications. The FCC set aside $100 million for Affordable Connectivity Program outreach. Each of the pilot programs discussed here will make up to $5 million in grants to community partners. Your Home, Your Internet and ACP Navigator Pilot Program applicants are not required to seek grant funding through the Pilot Grants. Applicants that will not rely on grant funding through the Pilot Grants for their outreach activities may receive an earlier notice of approval to participate in either or both pilot programs.