For years, fixed wireless and satellite broadband providers have faced an uphill battle in federal funding programs—frequently sidelined by “fiber-first” policies. But that era may be over. The NTIA’s recent restructuring of the BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) program marks a dramatic shift toward technology neutrality, opening new competitive doors for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite providers.
So what’s changed? And how can non-fiber providers position themselves for success?
The Old Rules: Fiber or Bust
Under the original 2022 BEAD guidance, projects using fiber received scoring advantages during subgrant selection. Technologies like unlicensed fixed wireless and satellite broadband were often deprioritized—even if they could meet performance benchmarks in rural or remote areas.
This discouraged many ISPs from applying, especially those using innovative hybrid or wireless architectures.
The New Rules: Tech-Neutral and Cost-First
The 2025 BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice clearly redefines eligibility and evaluation. It removes previous biases against specific technologies and focuses on performance and cost-efficiency.
Key Change: Projects are now scored on total cost per location, regardless of technology, as long as the solution meets minimum performance standards (100/20 Mbps for underserved; 25/3 Mbps for unserved).
This is particularly significant for:
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) providers using licensed or unlicensed spectrum
LEO satellite operators with scalable, global coverage capabilities
What This Means for Fixed Wireless ISPs
Fixed wireless providers can now submit competitive proposals without needing to justify their technology choice—if they can:
Demonstrate consistent performance within BEAD thresholds
Deliver cost-effective per-location pricing
Deploy infrastructure within state-imposed grant timelines
This is especially relevant in:
Remote regions with rugged terrain
Areas where fiber trenching is cost-prohibitive or slow
Looking for tools to support BEAD planning? Access the BEAD Funding Toolkit
While LEO providers face scrutiny around latency and availability, the restructuring removes formal barriers to their participation. As long as they:
Meet reliability and performance benchmarks
Serve locations otherwise considered “unserved” or “underserved”
Provide transparent cost modeling
They can now compete on equal footing, especially in extremely remote or island territories.
Why Sonar Is a Strategic Fit for Wireless and Hybrid Networks
Sonar Software supports mixed-technology networks through its flexible OSS/BSS platform, enabling providers to:
Track service quality across technologies (fiber, wireless, LEO)
Automate multi-tech provisioning workflows
Report BEAD-aligned performance and costs
Integrate customer portals, billing, and dispatch operations in one platform
Leveling the Playing Field for Innovation
The NTIA’s restructuring of the BEAD program is more than a bureaucratic update—it’s a green light for innovation. Fixed wireless and satellite providers no longer need to justify their existence. If you can meet performance targets and deliver internet access affordably, you’re in the game.