ICG has been involved with Universal Service Administrative Company/Schools and Libraries (USAC/SLD) known as “E-Rate" Program since inception through the following sequence.

1. Evaluate school’s technology status and propose a future technology need

1. Develop a plan to acquire advanced technology to enhance the learning and teaching process
2. Develop a Technology Plan according to MDE, USAC/SLD and other funding requirements such as Title I, II, IV,..
3. Amend the Technology Plan as needed to support the funding and technology/curriculum needs
4. Update the Technology Plan every three years as required by USAC/SLD
5. Facilitate the Technology Plan approval process from Michigan Department of Education (MDE)
6. Evaluate the School's Funding Options from Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC/SLD)’s E-Rate Program
7. Provide info about potential funding opportunities from other sources such as MDE, USDE and other foundations
8. Work with the school to develop RFP for the requested services every year

1. Apply for SLD Funding by Filing Form 470
2. Communicate with potential service providers’ inquiries
3. Develop a process for the school to evaluate bids from different service providers according to USAC/ SLD requirements
4. Complete 471 and Item-21 attachments accurately and timely
5. Communicate with USAC/SLD regarding funding status and evaluation processes
6. Communicate with service providers on all issues related to E-Rate funding and implementation processes
7. Submit a summary of funding requests for each funding year
8. Respond to SLD inquiries and Program Integrity Assurance (PIA) questions
9. Respond to compliance and eligibility issues during the funding applications review process
10. Become the point of contact for reviews, audits and appeals
11. Review Funding Commitment Decision Letter  (FCDL) upon receipt
12. Prepare a summary of funding commitment for each funding year
13. Complete SLD form 486 - Receipt of Service Confirmation Form on-timely manner
14. Prepare appeals for any denied FRN
15. Complete SLD form 472  - Billed Entity Applicant Reimbursement (BEAR) Form on-timely manner as needed
16. Submit other SLD forms as needed such as:
1. 500-Adjustment to Funding Commitment and Modification to Receipt of Service Confirmation
2. FRN extension to extend the funding period
3. FRN split to divide the funding into multiple service providers when needed (ex. Telecom into Local & long Distance)
4. SPIN number change and Service substitutions
17. Participate and prepare for USAC Audits (off-site and on-site)
18. Draft Letter of Agency (LOA)
19. Guide the Academy to be in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (“CIPA”), which are required by E-Rate