Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or cautiously optimistic about the recently released, enormous changes to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program? You're not alone. The NTIA’s recent BEAD overhaul is shaking up the broadband industry, sparking both excitement and uncertainty.
For WISPs, who have long argued that fiber isn’t the universal solution many believe it to be—particularly in rural, remote, or hard-to-reach areas—there’s some encouraging news.
But with opportunity comes urgency as states scramble to rework proposals amidst the NTIA's BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice, and the clock is ticking on the recently announced 90-day window to act.
This blog breaks down what’s changed, what to watch out for, and how to best seize the moment to get your bids in and make your next move.
Jump to these key sections:
What's Changed in the BEAD Rules?
The BEAD program has undergone an enormous overhaul. Here's the quick rundown:
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Tech Neutrality Takes Center Stage
The NTIA has officially ditched the fiber-first approach, adopting a tech-neutral stance. This means providers using unlicensed fixed wireless spectrum, 5/6 GHz, CBRS, mmWave, and even LEO satellite technology can now compete for funds as long as their solutions hit the baseline of 100/20 Mbps speeds with ≤100 ms latency. -
Regulatory Red Tape Slashed
Other regulatory mandates from the previous rules--such as climate reporting, open access requirements, and workforce diversity plans--have been replaced by simplified guidelines. For WISPs and independent operators, this means fewer hoops to jump through during the application process.
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States Must Reapply
Every state must redo its BEAD proposals, including new broadband maps and bidding rounds during what’s been dubbed, the "Benefit of the Bargain" phase. The NTIA will score bids based on cost-per-location, giving preference to cost-optimized solutions that can connect unserved and underserved Americans at scale.
What Does This Mean for WISPs?
With the emphasis on affordability and scalability, WISPs using fixed wireless access (FWA) can now level the playing field against fiber. Rural service providers now have a real shot at securing funds previously deemed fiber-only projects.
But this new opportunity comes with a tight timeline and some lingering uncertainties.
Concerns to Consider
Despite the positive steps toward tech neutrality, there are significant challenges WISPs should be mindful of:
1. The 90-Day Deadline
States only have 90 days to revise their applications, leaving minimal time for WISPs to prepare new proposals. From updating broadband coverage maps to meeting restructured requirements, there's no time for delay.
Key takeaway: WISPs that fail to prepare full documentation before the rebid window closes may miss this unprecedented opportunity.
2. Potential for Delays
The BEAD program has been slow-moving since the beginning. With states resubmitting proposals and the NTIA under pressure to ensure compliance, further delays are unfortunately likely. While some officials promise funds will flow this year, industry analysts are concerned that deployment won't begin until 2026.
What’s at stake? For areas without quick broadband deployment options, satellite providers like Starlink may win by default. This is a real threat to terrestrial WISPs.
3. Guarding Against Overbuilds
Fixed wireless access (FWA) providers must upload their current coverage maps and network details to prevent their existing networks from being replaced by overbuilt alternatives. Appendix A of the NTIA restructuring notice outlines essential steps for how to submit.
Actionable Recommendations to Jump Ahead
Applicants will be scored on their ability to deliver broadband quickly, and at the lowest cost per location. Make sure to showcase your ability to deploy and get up-and-running quickly. To maximize your chances of success, here’s what WISPs should do now:
1. Show What You Already Know... That Wireless Rocks
Work proactively with state representatives to prove your FWA solutions can deliver fiber-like performance at a fraction of the cost. Site demonstrations, testimonials, and speed benchmarks are powerful persuasion tools. Highlight your shining stars:
- Quick, easy-to-deploy solutions at a fraction of the cost of fiber
- Ultra-high-capacity & low-latency wireless technology - (did you know wireless is actually lower latency than fiber in many cases?
- Network resilience & scalability of wireless connectivity offers low-cost failover solutions for maximum network uptime
- A spectrum of options so you can propose the best technology and network design for the terrain, including microwave, millimeter wave, and fixed wireless access.
2. Get Your Ducks in a Row - Streamline Application Prep and Ensure Compliance
- Prepare comprehensive documentation: Provide detailed project plans that include accurate cost estimates, clear timelines, and thorough technical specifications.
- Demonstrate financial and technical qualifications: Showcase your company's financial stability and technical expertise to meet eligibility requirements.
- Leverage expert guidance: Partner with an expert to simplify the BEAD application process, reduce errors, and ensure full compliance with regulations.
3. Get Involved with Your State Broadband Office
- Align with your state priorities: Tailor your proposals to address your state’s specific priority areas to boost your chances of selection.
- Keep track of state timelines and updates: With states given only 90 days to implement new rules and conduct additional selection rounds, staying informed is essential.
- Collaborate with local stakeholders: While less emphasized than before, gaining local support can still add value and strengthen your application.
Short on Time (or Patience)? We Can Help!
Need help making sense of the BEAD program? Want an RF propagation plan that rocks (and covers all your target areas)? Our team specializes in:
- BEAD-Compliant Technology: We tailor FWA designs using trusted solutions like Ceragon and Siklu by Ceragon equipment, ensuring your project meets federal guidelines.
- End-to-End Network Designs: We’ve got the know-how to design networks, from backhaul to access and beyond.
Reach out today and give us 30 minutes of your time to elevate your BEAD strategy. Together, we’ll light up even the hardest-to-reach communities with scalable and cost-effective broadband.
