Mission Telecom Steps In to Match E-Rate Discount and Protect Affordable Wi-Fi for Schools and Libraries Amid FCC Cuts

New offer helps communities afford school bus Wi-Fi and mobile hotspots after the FCC's recent E-Rate funding cuts

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Oct. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mission Telecom, a nonprofit telecommunications provider and grantmaker dedicated to expanding digital equity, today announced a new offer to help schools and libraries remain whole after losing federal E-Rate funding for Wi-Fi hotspots and school bus connectivity. Under the new offer, Mission Telecom is honoring the post-discount applicant share of cost on Form 471, not the quote cost from the provider, keeping schools and libraries connected by covering the loss of E-rate subsidies.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)'s recent decision to eliminate E-rate program funding coverage for school bus Wi-Fi and mobile hotspots worsens the digital divide across the country, especially for students in low-income and rural communities. Without these resources, millions of students and lifelong learners risk falling behind.

"Just two weeks ago, the FCC made the unfortunate decision to end E-Rate support for school bus Wi-Fi and mobile hotspots. But that decision widens the digital divide," said Mark Colwell, Director of Broadband Operations at Mission Telecom. "Communities still rely on these tools to keep students and library patrons connected. That's why Mission Telecom is stepping in to help schools and libraries worried about maintaining this critical connectivity with tight budgets. By matching their subsidized E-Rate costs, we are helping provide affordable, reliable broadband so that every student and lifelong learner can stay connected."

To qualify for Mission Telecom's new offer, schools and libraries need to complete this sign-up form and subsequently provide a copy of their E-Rate Form 471 for hotspots or bus Wi-Fi. Mission Telecom will then match their post-discount cost for broadband, guaranteeing unlimited 4G/5G Wi-Fi service at the same rate they would have paid under E-Rate. Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with partners and participants praising the program's ease and impact.

"For the many libraries approved for E-Rate hotspot funding in FY 2025, only to have it snatched away retroactively by the FCC, Mission Telecom's offer will protect books and services that would otherwise be cut," said Sam Helmick, President of the American Library Association. "We are deeply appreciative that an internet service provider is stepping up to fill the gap left by the FCC this year. Americans, especially those in small and rural communities, need a sustainable solution for broadband. ALA looks forward to the FCC's Plan B to ensure everyone has affordable, adequate internet access for everyday needs, wherever they live."

"The current FCC just created a crisis that has left schools and libraries nationwide holding the bag and forced to either cancel their hotspot and school bus Wi-Fi programs, or face a budget shortfall," said Joseph Wender, Executive Director of the Schools, Health & Libraries (SHLB) Broadband Coalition. "SHLB is optimistic about how the market is responding to provide solutions that help these vital anchor institutions maintain these important programs."

"Thanks to Mission Telecom for stepping up to support school districts and libraries impacted by the FCC's recent decision to eliminate E-Rate funding for school bus Wi-Fi and student hotspots," said Keith Krueger, CEO of CoSN – The Consortium for School Networking. "In a time when digital equity remains critical, Mission Telecom's leadership is a vital step forward to ensure all students can stay connected and keep learning when they leave the classroom."

Key Details of the Offer:

• Guaranteed pricing on service through June 30, 2026
• Applies to mobile hotspots and school bus Wi-Fi programs
• Unlimited plans with 4G/5G broadband and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) options available
• No long-term or complex contracts, no activation or termination fees
• Fast setup: Free SIM cards ship within 3–5 business days
• CIPA-compliant filtering at no cost

This offer builds on Mission Telecom's Mission-Connect, launched in July to help schools and libraries stay connected amid E-Rate uncertainty. Schools and libraries that do not meet the requirements for this offer but would like to explore other affordable, best-in-class connectivity options with Mission Telecom are welcome to reach out.

For more information or to apply, please visit: https://missiontelecom.org/who-we-serve/e-rate-broadband-fcc-offer/.

About Mission Telecom
Mission Telecom  is a nonprofit telecommunications provider and grantmaker dedicated to expanding digital equity and driving systemic change. We are closing the digital divide with best-in-class, affordable wireless broadband services and equipping schools, libraries, and nonprofits with the connectivity and resources to power access and opportunity at every level. Our bold philanthropic program funds grassroots organizations that advance multiracial democracy, movement infrastructure, and telecom justice, creating lasting impact in their communities.

SOURCE Mission Telecom