Participant Process
Eligibility
T-LEAP was created for Tribal libraries that are new applicants to the E-Rate program or had challenges applying to the E-Rate program in the past. Tribal libraries must have the following three basic characteristics of a library:
- Regularly scheduled hours;
- Staff; and
- Materials available for library users.
Tribal governments can designate a library as a Tribal library through an official act (for example, through a Tribal Resolution). Libraries may also work with their state library administrative agency to become designated as a Tribal library.
TCU libraries are eligible for E-Rate funding as long as they also serve as a public library for their community and meet the characteristics of a library outlined above.
How to Apply for T-LEAP
If your Tribal library meets the eligibility criteria of a Tribal library, interested Tribal libraries can sign up here. This questionnaire gathers basic information on your library, points of contact, and information on your current IT needs. Please note that applying for T-LEAP is just the first step in receiving personalized one-on-one help through the E-Rate process.
After you apply to T-LEAP, USAC will reach out within seven business days and assign you a Tribal Library Advocate (TLA). The TLA will talk you through where the E-Rate program cycle is so that you can determine your next steps.
The E-Rate funding year (FY) 2025 application window closed on March 26, 2025. Several Tribal libraries have been selected and notified. If you are interested in participating in FY 2026, please reach out to USAC’s Tribal Liaison at TribalLiaison@usac.org or complete this survey.
T-LEAP Support through the E-Rate Funding Process
In T-LEAP, E-Rate program staff will support participating libraries through the full application cycle.
For most applicants, this process includes:
- Determining the library’s IT needs and identifying E-Rate eligible services
- Conducting competitive bidding
- Completing the E-Rate application process
For participating libraries that are approved for funding, program staff will then provide support through:
- Starting services
- Invoicing for E-Rate approved services and equipment
- Post-commitment processes, such as service and equipment substitution (if needed)
T-LEAP Benefits and Expectations
Each library will be paired with an E-Rate Tribal Library Advocate (TLA) who will provide one-on-one support throughout the E-Rate application process. Some libraries will be ready to apply with little assistance, and others may need more support during their application process. No matter where you are in the process, USAC and your TLA will support your needs. Each participating library will work with their TLA to complete the E-Rate program cycle. The TLA will provide hands-on support through the competitive bidding and application processes, as well as the invoicing and disbursement processes. In addition to the individual training and support, USAC will host a series of virtual E-Rate program trainings that cover the program basics and processes. Any Tribal library interested in applying for E-Rate funding is encouraged to attend these trainings.
T-LEAP participants are expected to provide feedback about the E-Rate application and post-commitment processes, so that we can continue to enhance the training and program experience for Tribal library applicants.