What Service Providers Need To Know Navigating BEAD and BABA

Offering a total of $42.45 billion in funding, the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program represents a truly transformative opportunity for service providers to bring broadband to unserved and underserved communities across the country. Three years after BEAD was signed into law, momentum is accelerating as we have reached a significant milestone: As of November, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved the initial plans for all 56 states and territories participating in the program. This means that states and territories can now request access to their allocated BEAD funding and begin implementation-selecting the broadband service providers (BSPs), municipalities, and other providers that will build high-speed networks for the future.

As we make the transition from planning to execution, it's critical that BSPs are ready to go. While application processes and windows vary by state, BSPs should be preparing their applications now, ensuring they align with relevant federal and state requirements. This includes the Build America, Buy America Act, or BABA.

What Is BABA and How Does It Impact BSPs?

Part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, BABA mandates that federally funded broadband infrastructure prioritize components manufactured in the United States. While certain components-such as non-fiber Wi-Fi gateways-are waived, other key equipment, including optical line terminals (OLTs) and optical network terminals (ONTs), must comply.

To help simplify this process, the NTIA has introduced a self-certification program through which manufacturers identify those components that meet the domestic manufacturing requirement in the BABA waiver for the BEAD program. In October, the NTIA published the initial list of companies-including Calix-that have self-certified that their broadband equipment meets BABA requirements. Calix offers an extensive portfolio of BEAD-compliant systems on the Calix Broadband Platform, ensuring that BSP customers can act quickly to gain their share of the multi-billion-dollar funding. Confirming compliance early will not only strengthen BSPs' BEAD applications, but also help avoid delays during deployment.

Get Proactive To Secure Funding

Of course, winning BEAD funding requires more than compliance; it demands strategic planning and proactive preparation. Providers should focus on:

1. Incorporating compliance early. BABA compliance needs to be built into your network design from the outset. This ensures your application aligns with federal standards and avoids costly redesigns later.

2. Securing documentation. Certification letters from manufacturers confirming BABA compliance are critical for your application package. Start gathering these now to save time later.

3. Engaging state administrators. Each state has specific BEAD requirements. Building relationships with state broadband officers early will help you understand their expectations and avoid surprises.

The time to act is now. With Final Proposals right around the corner and competition heating up, BSPs must be proactive to secure funding and set their projects on a path to success.

Operational Readiness: Key to Deployment Success

Operational readiness is just as important as the application itself. Supply chain resilience must be a top priority; BSPs need to confirm that vendors can reliably deliver compliant equipment without delays. At the same time, network designs should focus on scalability, ensuring the infrastructure built today can accommodate future subscriber growth and evolving technology. BEAD isn't just about closing the broadband gap; it's about creating networks that will connect, protect, and support communities for decades to come.

This is where Calix can be an invaluable partner. Our broadband solutions are not only BABA compliant but also purpose-built to help service providers deliver exceptional subscriber experiences. We bring decades of experience navigating federal funding programs and helping providers maximize their investments. From ensuring your network design meets BABA requirements to streamlining your application process, we offer the tools, resources, and guidance you need to succeed.

Book a consult with Calix experts today to get tailored guidance on navigating BEAD funding, ensuring compliance, and building a broadband network that transforms your community.