How to use PEPPM contracts with E-rate funding by conducting a mini-bid

E-rate Category 2 in Pennsylvania

School districts and libraries can choose to use PEPPM contracts as the procurement option for their E-rate Category 2 applications, but a mini-bid process must be conducted among all manufacturers that can provide that “category” of equipment in order to meet the E-rate requirement that all equivalent product lines must be provided the opportunity to submit proposals.

For information on the entire process, a step-by-step guide, and additional documentation to conducting your PEPPM Mini-Bids, go to this E-rate in Pennsylvania website for instructions and a PEPPM Mini Bid Guide. It’s important that each step be followed in order and in its entirety in order to be E-rate compliant.

Please note: For E-rate Funding Year 2026, the new PEPPM contracts are now available and listed on both the PEPPM Contracts page and the E-rate in Pennsylvania website (Attachment C).

 

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🛡️ CyberPilot Mini-Bid Option Now Available through PEPPM

The FCC has granted a bidding exemption allowing the 54 Pennsylvania schools and libraries participating in the Cybersecurity Pilot Program (CPP or CyberPilot) to use the PEPPM Contract as their procurement vehicle for eligible cybersecurity products and services.

CPP participants may take advantage of this streamlined process by conducting a PEPPM Mini-Bid using a specialized template and following a simple step-by-step process.

🚫 Important: PEPPM mini-bids must be completed before submitting your Form 471. If using PEPPM, do not also file a separate Form 470 for the same items.

🔍 Learn more and access the guide and templates: CyberPilot PEPPM Mini-Bid Resources