The E-Rate program provides discounts to schools and libraries in the US to obtain affordable internet access and telecommunications. Administered by the FCC, it is funded through fees charged to telecom companies. Schools can request funding for internet, internal networks, and maintenance. Discounts range from 20-90% based on poverty levels. The FCC capped annual funding at $2.25 billion but requests exceed this amount, showing high participation rates and increased internet access in schools over time.