BEAD Program Applicant Resource Center
Let’s work together to connect the unconnected
What is the Broadband Equity Access & Deployment (BEAD) program?
The Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program is a US government funding program has a goal to connect all Americans to high-speed internet. $42 billion in funding has been earmarked to bring broadband access to the unserved and underserved through the Broadband Equity Access & Deployment (BEAD) program. We fully support the BEAD program and its goal of bringing broadband to all. Nokia has established manufacturing in the United States of a complete, BEAD-compliant, broadband solution and we have a deep understanding of both broadband networks and government funding programs. Let us be a resource for you!
What’s the difference between Build America, Buy America (BABA) and Buy American requirements?
Navigating the Broadband Equity Access And Deployment (BEAD) program funding rules isn’t simple. From shifting “Buy American” guidelines to new BABA mandates, the requirements can feel like a maze—and one wrong step could cost you time, money and eligibility.
Read the Article for a full breakdown
Which product categories are subject to BABA requirements?
Frequently Asked Questions on BABA Compliance
No, regardless of whether a BEAD recipient is using federal funds, matching funds or paying out of pocket for network equipment, all components of a BEAD project must be BABA compliant or waived. There is no workaround.
No. Installed equipment that is non-compliant can be leveraged without requiring a rip and replace so long as it is not counted towards match. Anything new must be BABA compliant (i.e. line card in an installed OLT)
At the customer premises, standalone ONTs or combined ONT/ONUs must be BABA compliant. Products downstream of the ONT/ONU (WiFi Routers and Beacons) are not eligible for BEAD funding – those products must be paid for out of pocket
BABA Requirements on products terminate the day the grant closes – upon project completion (4 years or less)
Electronics (all assets) purchased for BEAD are subject to a federal security interest that terminates 10 years after the grant closes subject to minimum dollar threshold amounts
Which broadband solutions are BABA Compliant?
Nokia’s fiber optic broadband network electronics and optical modules manufactured in the U.S. meet the Buy America guidelines from the Department of Commerce. Our Buy America compliant products have been carefully selected for their performance, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility, making them ideal choices for potential recipients of BEAD funding. Build America, Buy Nokia.
BEAD Compliance certification
Most states will require that you provide a compliance certification letter from the manufacturers whose products you plan to deploy as part of your BEAD application. This information will be checked against the Buy America Qualified Vendor List that NTIA will maintain for manufacturers to self-certify compliance. Request your copy of the Nokia Buy America compliance letter here.
What is Nokia’s Buy America Compliant Solution?
Nokia’s offering of Buy America compliant products are available as part of our Network-in-a-box program designed to simplify broadband deployments. Everything you need for a broadband network, configurable for your unique build, available to order today.
For a complete list of Nokia products that are Buy America, compliant, please visit our Buy America page.
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