At Fiber Connect 2025, the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) reported that its members have invested nearly $650 million to comply with Build America, Buy America (BABA) requirements tied to the federal BEAD (Broadband Equity Access and Deployment) program. These investments have resulted in over 5,600 new U.S. manufacturing jobs and added 1.3 million square feet of manufacturing space across 72 facilities in 28 states.
The BEAD program, administered by the NTIA, mandates the use of fiber-optic technology as a preferred broadband medium. BABA compliance requires that infrastructure components—especially optical glass and fiber cables—be manufactured in the U.S., though limited waivers apply for certain materials. The Department of Commerce granted a February 2024 waiver for non-optic-glass components used in preform production and eased the 55% domestic content threshold for some fiber transmission electronics.
FBA emphasized that the BEAD-driven onshoring of fiber production represents a major economic stimulus. “The continuation of BEAD funding is critical for closing the digital divide, preserving good jobs, stimulating the economy, and maintaining American leadership,” said Marissa Mitrovich, FBA’s Vice President of Public Policy. Anis Khemakhem, CMO of Clearfield, noted that meeting BABA requirements “permeates the supply chain,” requiring broad organizational commitment and investment in both workforce and production infrastructure.
- $650 million invested by BABA-compliant FBA members
- 5,600 new U.S. manufacturing jobs created
- 1,325,000 sq. ft. of new or expanded production facilities
- 72 fiber manufacturing sites across 28 U.S. states
- BEAD mandates fiber as the default broadband technology
- Limited BABA waivers issued by the Department of Commerce in Feb. 2024
- Full waiver details: Commerce.gov PDF
“The amount of time, effort, commitment, and training required to bring these jobs back to the U.S. cannot be understated,” said Anis Khemakhem, Chief Marketing Officer, Clearfield.
At Fiber Connect 2025, the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) announced significant organizational growth as it scales to meet rising demand for high-speed fiber connectivity across North America. With membership surging nearly 20% this year to 625 companies—up 178% over the past five years—FBA now counts network operators as 45% of its base, reflecting its central role in supporting end-to-end fiber deployments. The association has expanded its footprint with 19 active committees, roundtables, and working groups, including four new additions focused on AI, middle mile infrastructure, Canadian markets, and membership engagement. Participation has also deepened, with 1,450 individuals from member organizations contributing to FBA initiatives. To sustain this momentum, FBA has increased staffing by nearly 40% and broadened its event lineup with new regional workshops, policy forums, and networking opportunities.
