BEAD, Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment, is an unprecedented federal government program designed to close the digital divide by using modern technologies to provide high-speed broadband internet access across America, especially for unserved and underserved rural areas, by the end of the decade.
Reliable broadband internet can be transformative for communities in many ways, including:
Fiber is leading the way to broadband access and Corning is at the forefront. Corning cables are BABA compliant.
Fiber is leading the way to broadband access and Corning is at the forefront. Corning cables are BABA compliant.
Learn MoreBEAD Program Implementation Challenges
Deploying and operating a rural broadband internet network can be challenging, however, carefully assessing any barriers and developing smart approaches early in the planning process will put you on the path to success.
| Geography | Constructing and maintaining networks to BEAD standards in remote locations and difficult terrain can add cost and logistical complexity. It’s important to find a solution that offers the best combination of quality, flexibility, and cost efficiency for your unique needs. |
| Regulations | Policies governing broadband networks are complex and differ from region to region. Awareness, coordination, and clarification upfront are critical, along with creating clear, consistent processes to address these variations. |
| Workforce | Labor shortages, particularly trained installers, can limit realization of the broadband expansion envisioned by the BEAD program. Solutions that reduce the need for scarce skilled labor can make it easier for rural communities to reach their broadband internet goals. |
| Return on Investment | When developing the business model for your broadband network, don’t forget to plan for the challenges of long-term viability. Costs, from installation through the maintenance required to prevent infrastructure degradation, and expansion as your community’s needs grow over the decades-long life of the network, are all critical to maximizing your BEAD funding and helping ensure a healthy ROI. |
| Education | Improving digital literacy among your community members is an important part of your business plan. Making sure your potential customers understand the opportunities presented by broadband internet and how to access those benefits will ease technology approval and increase loyalty. |
Network Security |
Securing the privacy of the customer data that passes through your network is not only required by BEAD program regulations, it’s also essential to building trust and loyalty among your subscribers. |
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Read MoreHave questions? Our dedicated rural connectivity experts can help you successfully navigate your broadband internet network options. Contact us.
The NTIA has allocated funds to all 50 states and 6 territories that will each conduct a challenge process to determine which underserved or unserved areas are eligible to be a BEAD-funded project.
After the challenge process concludes, each state will conduct an application process in which applicants will bid on eligible locations. For specifics on your state, get involved with your state’s broadband office and read your state's Initial Proposal.
Yes, check out our BABA page. Corning offers a variety of solutions which are compliant for BEAD and other government funding projects.
