Supporting the supply chain behind broadband
The challenge
Broadband investment faced supply chain barriers
The federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program was created to expand high-speed internet access across the United States, particularly in communities that remained unserved or underserved.
Buy America requirements created potential challenges for broadband projects because some of the equipment needed to build networks relies on global supply chains. ITI warned that applying the requirements too broadly could delay projects and make it harder for federal broadband investment
ITI’s Approach
Making broadband funding work in practice
ITI worked with federal policymakers to support an approach that strengthened US manufacturing while recognizing how broadband equipment is actually produced.
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Supporting a targeted waiver
ITI supported more flexible Buy America rules when domestic sourcing requirements could slow broadband deployment.
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Keeping projects moving
ITI emphasized that federal requirements should not delay projects designed to bring high-speed internet to communities that need it.
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Connecting companies in the supply chain with policymakers
ITI worked with members across the supply chain to help policymakers understand how sourcing rules could affect broadband equipment and deployment.
ITI’s Impact
ITI turns supply chain expertise into smarter broadband rules
ITI advocated for practical Buy America rules, showing policymakers how sourcing requirements could slow broadband projects. In 2023, NTIA proposed a targeted waiver that addressed key industry concerns and helped broadband investments move forward.
ITI Comments on OMB Proposed Rule for BABA: Guidance for Grants and Agreements
ITI Experts
Terri O’Brien
Storm Horncastle
