The California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) Adoption Account aims to enhance digital inclusion and broadband access in underserved communities. Managed under the Public Utilities Code section 281, the fund supports projects that improve public and after-school broadband availability, digital literacy training, and public education programs. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) prioritizes funding for communities with low broadband access, including low-income households, senior citizens, and populations facing socioeconomic barriers. To streamline the grant process, grantees must submit payment requests through the Electronic Claims and Applications Portal (eCAP).
The primary objectives of the CASF Adoption Account are to address digital inequality by funding programs that facilitate broadband adoption and digital literacy. Eligible projects include digital inclusion initiatives such as literacy training programs and public education campaigns for communities with limited broadband access. It also supports projects offering free broadband access in public spaces like libraries, schools, and community centers, along with outreach efforts that assist residents in navigating and comparing internet plans.
The CASF Adoption Account has allocated $36.385 million for the fiscal year 2024-2025. Local governments, senior centers, schools, libraries, nonprofits, and community-based organizations are encouraged to apply. Eligible projects must focus on either increasing digital literacy or providing publicly available broadband access, especially in areas with demonstrated needs.
Grant applications can be submitted at any time, with review cycles occurring semiannually. Deadlines for 2025 include January 1 and July 1, with subsequent cycles continuing biannually. Applications received by these deadlines will be considered as a batch until the allocated funds are exhausted. If a deadline coincides with a weekend or holiday, submissions will be accepted until the following business day.
To apply, interested parties must follow the Adoption Account Application Instructions and submit a complete application package. CPUC staff will evaluate and publish a list of applications received by each deadline, along with funded projects, on the CASF website. Applicants seeking further information or assistance can contact the program at casf_adoption@cpuc.ca.gov.
