Nokia Selected by Planters Broadband Cooperative to Build AI-Ready Fiber Network for Underserved Communities in Southeast Georgia

September 20, 2026

Nokia Finland

Overview

Nokia has been selected by Planters Broadband Cooperative, with partial funding from the U.S. BEAD program, to construct an AI-ready fiber optic network for underserved communities in southeast Georgia. This project will deploy Nokia’s Lightspan MF-2 platform, Optical Network Terminals (ONTs), BABA-compliant PON optical modules, and the Altiplano Access Controller with Corteca software. The aim is to provide multi-gigabit broadband and advanced in-home Wi-Fi services, future-proofing the network for sustainable growth.

In Depth

Key Findings

Nokia has been chosen by Planters Broadband Cooperative to build an AI-ready fiber optic network in underserved communities across southeast Georgia, a project partially funded by the U.S. Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This significant initiative aims to deliver high-speed, reliable broadband access to local residents and establish sustainable infrastructure capable of meeting future digital demands.

Technical Details

Nokia’s Solution Stack: The network deployment will leverage Nokia’s comprehensive portfolio, including:

Lightspan MF-2 Platform: A high-density, scalable access network foundation.
Optical Network Terminals (ONTs): Devices installed at customer premises to convert optical signals to electrical.
BABA-compliant PON Optical Modules: Passive Optical Network (PON) modules adhering to “Buy America, Build America” requirements, promoting domestic manufacturing.
Altiplano Access Controller with Corteca Software: An intelligent software solution designed for network automation, management, and optimization.

Multi-Gigabit Broadband and In-Home Wi-Fi: The deployed network will provide multi-gigabit broadband services and high-performance in-home Wi-Fi, addressing current bandwidth-intensive needs such as AI and cloud applications.

Background & Context

The U.S. government, through the BEAD program, is making substantial investments to bridge the national broadband gap and strengthen digital infrastructure. Access to high-speed internet in underserved areas is deemed essential for economic growth, education, healthcare, and social participation. The concept of an “AI-ready network” signifies that the infrastructure is designed to handle the anticipated demands of future AI-driven applications, underscoring the importance of forward-thinking investment.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

This collaboration between Nokia and Planters Broadband Cooperative to deploy an AI-ready fiber optic network is set to bring significant transformation to communities in southeast Georgia. High-speed broadband will support remote education, telemedicine, stimulate local economies, and foster new business opportunities. Furthermore, the network being “AI-ready” ensures adaptability to future technological advancements, securing long-term sustainability. This project is expected to serve as a successful model for digital inclusion and advanced infrastructure development under the BEAD program.

Source: https://www.nokia.com/newsroom/nokia-selected-by-planters-broadband-cooperative-to-build-ai-ready-fiber-network-for-underserved-communities-in-southeast-georgia/

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