More than 25 percent of the available eRate funding that was committed to applicants during the program’s first nine years has not been disbursed. About $5 billion of the estimated $19.5 billion in eRate funds committed to schools and libraries from 1998 to 2006 were never used, according to a recent report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

Funds for Learning found that the single biggest factor affecting whether eRate funds are used is how quickly applicants receive their funding commitment decision letter from USAC. USAC says it already has taken several steps to streamline its funding commitment process, such as moving the entire application process online and increasing its training and outreach activities.

To read more from eSchool News about unused eRate funds, click here.