Helping To Close The Digital Divide By Making High-speed Broadband Accessible To All
Nokia, a global leader in telecommunications technology, is making significant strides in its commitment to support the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program and Buy America initiatives by expanding its manufacturing operations in the United States. The company aims to play a pivotal role in closing the digital divide, ensuring that high-speed broadband access becomes a reality for all Americans.
In alignment with the recent Buy America guidelines issued by the Department of Commerce for BEAD participants, Nokia is on track to become the first technology vendor to comply with its fiber-optic broadband network electronics and optical modules. By adhering to these regulations, Nokia will be eligible to supply its products and services to critical projects to address the digital divide.
Manufacturing Fiber-Optic Products in the U.S.
Operators and infrastructure players participating in BEAD’s $42.45 billion funding must use U.S.-manufactured equipment and obtain certification to avoid federal penalties. On August 8, 2024 Nokia announced that they have become the first technology vendor to self-certify that its fiber products made in the U.S. are compliant with the new Buy America guidelines. This self-certification ensures that Nokia’s fiber broadband equipment meets the requirements outlined by the NTIA.
Nokia’s certified products include the FX and MF OLT modular lines, the SF-8M sealed OLT, and the XS-220X-A ONT.
“We are excited to announce yet another milestone in our BEAD journey,” said Sandy Motley, President of Fixed Networks at Nokia. “As a certified vendor, we can now provide BEAD applicants with a certification letter that’s become essential for applications and BABA reporting requirements. It also provides the confidence and assurance several need to submit product orders today without fear of being out of compliance.”
Through our partnership with Nokia, our customers can request these same materials from our team, to ensure their compliance with BABA requirements within the BEAD program.
Network-in-a-Box Expansion
On August 18, 2023, Nokia announced expanding its ‘network-in-a-box’ program, offering pre-packaged solutions designed to simplify and accelerate broadband network builds. These solutions include recently announced fiber-optic broadband network electronics products and optical modules manufactured in the U.S., which are vital components for BEAD projects.
Optical Module Manufacturing
Nokia has partnered with Fabrinet to manufacture multi-rate optical modules for Optical Line Terminals (OLTs) in the U.S. This marks a significant milestone as Nokia becomes the first telecom vendor to manufacture fiber broadband optical modules domestically, bringing high-tech innovation and jobs to the United States. Production is set to commence in 2024.
Kenosha County Production
Nokia has also partnered with Sanmina Corporation to manufacture fiber-optic broadband network electronics products at the Sanmina Pleasant Prairie facility in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, starting in 2024. This initiative is expected to generate up to 200 new jobs, contributing to the state’s economic growth and job creation.
Bridging the Digital Divide
Access to high-quality, American-made technology solutions is crucial for bridging the digital divide and extending fiber broadband to underserved and unserved communities.
Nokia’s dedication to manufacturing fiber-optic broadband products and optical modules in the U.S. ensures that BEAD participants and infrastructure builders have access to cutting-edge technology. This supports their efforts to connect more homes, schools, businesses, and communities, ultimately fostering innovation and economic expansion.
By taking these significant steps in U.S. manufacturing, Nokia is poised to significantly impact the BEAD program and Buy America initiatives. It will help bring high-speed broadband access to communities across the nation and create jobs that contribute to a solid and equitable economy.
About Infinity Technology Solutions
Infinity Technology Solutions specializes in broadband and critical communications infrastructure development. We help our channel partners create private wireless networks 4G/5G, microwave backhaul systems, IP/MPLS, and optical networking technology.
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