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The Federal Communications Commission has announced the creation of T-LEAP, a program offering one-on-one assistance to tribal libraries for E-Rate applications.

By: Brad Randall, Broadband Communities

The Tribal Library E-Rate Advocacy Program, also known as T-LEAP, will now try to carry out a mission of helping tribal libraries submit E-Rate applications.

The new permanent program, announced by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), will also help tribal libraries learn more about the E-Rate application process, according to the FCC’s Oct. 28 release.

E-Rate, a universal service support program for school and libraries, assists with the attainment affordable broadband.

“Libraries are an important source for Internet access, which is especially true on Tribal lands, where access can be very limited and residents lack the tools needed at home to connect,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “We want to do everything possible to make sure Tribal communities have full access to the digital age, and this advocacy program will provide direct support to these groups as they navigate the E-Rate application process.”

The announcement comes following a modification of FCC rules in 2022, when tribal entities were deemed eligible for E-Rate, according to the FCC’s announcement.

The FCC’s release explained that T-LEAP will build on the Tribal Libraries Pilot Program.

The program “provided one-on-one assistance on the application process for the full lifecycle of the E-Rate program during funding years 2023 and 2024,” the FCC’s release stated. “In both funding years, the Tribal library applicants receiving assistance in applying to E-Rate through the Pilot Program collectively received over $100,000 in funding commitments.”

Tribal libraries can sign up for T-LEAP here.

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