Compiling Your Feasibility Study To Get Started With BEAD Funding

Now is the time to prepare for the upcoming funding waves from the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program to avoid missing out. The first step for broadband service providers (BSPs) is conducting a feasibility study, which provides a thorough pre-evaluation of your project. Depending on the size of the service area, the complexity of the environment, the services required, and the availability of geographical maps and location-specific information, a feasibility study can take between two and four months to complete. So again, begin planning/preparing now so that you are not scrambling when the application phase begins.
 

The resulting report will help you determine the viability of your broadband business case and should include the following elements:

• Market research and community needs. Highlight the current broadband options in your area, identify service gaps, and address outstanding needs. Even if you’re planning to build a broadband network in an unserved or underserved area, understanding the broader picture is essential.
  
  
• Existing infrastructure audit. Determine what communications infrastructure is already in place and/ or mapped out. If an audit doesn’t exist, you’ll need one to understand what’s available, such as physical cables, poles, equipment, right-of-way permits, and infrastructure layout.
  
  
• Network design, technology, and costs. Outline the type of network you intend to build, along with estimated costs and timelines. For instance, if planning a fiber-optic network, provide a conceptual design, explain the technology, and illustrate the potential network layout.
  
  
• Financial business case. Present a financial model with estimated costs to build and operate the network, as well as potential revenue over time. While this may include many assumptions, it’s crucial to understand the required investment level and demonstrate the viability of your plan.
  
  
• Operational wherewithal. Interested parties must be able to show they are capable of operating a large broadband network.

Compiling a feasibility study is extensive work, requiring thorough research—and technical and financial expertise. While some information can be gathered independently, external support is often necessary. Calix offers a funding consult program, leveraging powerful tools from Ready.net, to guide you from the feasibility study to identifying new opportunities. Utilizing the expertise of funding specialists—from researching BEAD project areas to engaging with engineering firms and consultants—will simplify the process and increase your chances of funding success.
 

With the right preparation and partnerships, you can maximize this once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform your community. It all starts with the feasibility study to help you narrow down the options based on individual state criteria and the specifics of your local project.
 

Begin planning your feasibility study by scheduling a funding consult with our team—or learn more by downloading our eBook, “The Ultimate Guide to Broadband Funding.”