California Advanced Services Fund Adoption Account

The California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) Adoption Account is a grant program administered by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). The CPUC is a constitutionally established agency within the State of California that regulates services and utilities, including telecommunications. Through the CASF Adoption Account, the CPUC aims to address the digital divide by supporting initiatives that enhance broadband adoption across the state. This fund is authorized under Public Utilities Code section 281, which designates resources specifically to promote publicly accessible broadband and to support digital inclusion efforts. The primary objective of the CASF Adoption Account is to fund programs that increase broadband access and digital literacy, especially within underserved communities that demonstrate low broadband adoption. These communities include low-income households, senior citizen communities, and areas facing socioeconomic barriers to connectivity. By providing digital literacy training and public education programs, the fund empowers community members with the skills needed to effectively use broadband technologies for work, education, and civic participation. Additionally, the fund supports infrastructure projects that create or expand after-school and community broadband access points. Eligible applicants for this program include local governments, schools, senior centers, public libraries, nonprofit organizations, and other community-based entities with programs aimed at boosting digital inclusion. There are two primary project types funded under this program. Digital Literacy (DL) Projects support community education efforts, including public training sessions and digital inclusion initiatives. Broadband Access (BA) Projects focus on expanding publicly available broadband services, such as free internet access in public spaces or the operation of community call centers that help residents evaluate and select appropriate internet plans. The total authorized funding for the 2024–2025 fiscal year is $36.385 million. Applications can be submitted on a rolling basis, but reviews are conducted in batches according to semi-annual deadlines: January 1 and July 1 of each year. These deadlines remain consistent until all funds are exhausted. If a deadline falls on a holiday or weekend, the submission date is extended to the next business day. Funded projects are announced on the CASF webpage following each review cycle. Applications must be submitted via the Electronic Claims and Applications Portal (eCAP), which serves as the centralized platform for grant submissions and payment requests. The application package includes several required forms: the Adoption Account Application, Ramp Up and Year 1 Reporting Template, Completion Reporting Template, and the appropriate Budget Details and Payment Request workbook, depending on project type. Funded projects are required to report regularly on progress and must follow administrative procedures outlined in the Adoption Account Administrative Manual and Guidelines. For assistance or inquiries, applicants can contact the program team via email at [email protected]. Program documentation, including application guidelines and required templates, is available on the CASF website. The program operates on a recurring cycle, with ongoing reviews every six months, providing consistent opportunities for organizations across California to secure support for broadband access and digital inclusion efforts.