Affordability
Introduction
MCA is keenly aware that broadband connectivity goes beyond the poles and wires across communities. To ensure access, individuals must be able to access broadband service. Access includes financial affordability, access to equipment, and support for training to use digital services.
More information on MCA’s broader work to ensure digital equity for all is available on our digital equity initiatives page.
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a $14.2 billion federal program that helps
Funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the ACP provides eligible households with a discount of up to $30 per month (up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands) and a one-time $100 discount toward a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.
families and households who are struggling to afford internet service.
ACP4ME Campaign
The ACP4ME campaign is Maine Connectivity Authority’s new statewide initiative to increase awareness and enrollment into the ACP. In Maine, 238,710 households are eligible for the ACP, yet only 65,000 (27% of those eligible) have enrolled.
In partnership with Education SuperHighway, a national non-profit working to close the broadband affordability gap, we are building a statewide coalition of local communities and trusted institutions to raise awareness of this critical program through earned and social media. We are asking you to leverage your networks to increase awareness of ACP.
ACP Eligibility Requirements
Partners Can Take Action Now!
Without high-speed internet access at home, households can't fully engage in society. The internet allows students to complete school work outside the classroom, work remotely, or access healthcare, job training, the social safety net, and critical government services. Act now to ensure all eligible Mainers can take advantage of ACP!
1. Sign on to raise awareness of the ACP by completing
2. the free and customizable marketing materials to promote the campaign.
3. Use the #ACP4ME hashtag, tag @MaineConnectivity/@MEConnectivity, and tag @EducationSuperhighway in your social media posts.
4. for the April 5 webinar on how to support those enrolling in the program.
Households are eligible if the annual income is less than 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, if anyone already receives Lifeline, or if you participate in one of these programs:
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Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
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Medicaid
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Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
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Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
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Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA) (including Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program (Section 8 Vouchers), Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA)/202/811, Public Housing, and Affordable Housing Programs for American Indians, Alaska Natives or Native Hawaiians)
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Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
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Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, including at U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Community Eligibility Provision schools
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Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year
ACP Eligibility
