Attendees at the annual spring service provider training in Phoenix this week were given an extra special treat: USAC pulled back the curtains on its new, soon-to-be-launched web portal. Referred to by the acronym EPC (“E-rate Productivity Center”), USAC has promised that this portal will be front and center in the online submission of forms and other communication to and from USAC. Here is my prediction: whereas FY2015 was all about the new rules, FY2016 will be all about the new process – new ways of gathering and reporting information, and new requirements to help hold applicants and service providers accountable.
The EPC system is set to go live this July. First up in the new system: an updated Form 470 with its new data requirements and certifications. I am sure that USAC will be providing more information in the weeks and months to come.
As a part of our continuing efforts to support applicants, Funds For Learning will be providing free training on the use of the new portal. Stay tuned to our newsletter and web site for upcoming dates and times.