How to Get Your First Fiber Optic Drilling Contract
- Nate Jones
- Jul 27
- 3 min read
Starting a fiber optic directional drilling business is a smart move in 2025—but landing your first contract can feel like the biggest hurdle. With billions in broadband funding available and a growing demand for underground fiber installation, there are more opportunities than ever. The key is knowing where to look, how to prepare, and how to stand out.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the steps to secure your first fiber optic drilling job and how to position your business for long-term success.
1. Register on Bidding Platforms
Many fiber optic projects—especially those funded by federal or state programs—are awarded through public bidding portals. These platforms list RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and RFQs (Requests for Quotes) for directional drilling and trenchless installation work.
Top Platforms to Register:
SAM.gov – Federal contracts and broadband infrastructure projects
BidNet Direct – State and local government bids
💡 Pro Tip: Set up email alerts for “horizontal directional drilling,” “fiber optic installation,” or “underground boring” in your region.
2. Build a Professional Profile
Before you bid, make sure your business looks credible and capable. This includes:
A clean, professional website - Need a website? Reach out to Contractor Back Office to create a low cost website.
A list of services and past experience (even if subcontracted)
Proof of insurance and bonding
Safety certifications and training records
💡 Related Reading: What Kind of Insurance Do I Need for a Directional Drilling Business?
3. Network with Prime Contractors
Many large telecom and utility companies subcontract fiber installation work to smaller HDD contractors. Reach out to:
Regional telecom providers
Utility construction firms
Municipal public works departments
Introduce your business, share your capabilities, and ask to be added to their vendor or subcontractor list.
💡 Related Reading: How Do I Find jobs for My Fiber Optic Directional Drilling Business?
4. Start Small and Build Trust
Your first job doesn’t have to be a massive city-wide fiber install. Look for:
Residential fiber drops
Short bores for local ISPs
Subcontracted work from larger HDD firms
These smaller jobs help you build a portfolio, gain experience, and earn referrals.
5. Be Ready with Insurance and Compliance
Most clients—especially government agencies and telecoms—require proof of insurance before awarding a contract. At Excavating Insurance Partners, we help you get the fiber optic drilling insurance you need to qualify for more jobs.
Our coverage includes:
👉 Get a quote today and make sure you’re ready to bid with confidence.
6. Learn the Bidding and Planning Process
Understanding how to plan a bore path, estimate footage, and account for ground conditions is essential when bidding on fiber jobs. Tools like Vermeer Projects can help you map and plan your bores accurately.
🛠️ External Resource: Vermeer’s Guide to Installing Fiber with HDD
Final Thoughts
Getting your first fiber optic drilling contract takes preparation, persistence, and professionalism. But once you land that first job, you’ll be on your way to building a profitable business in one of the fastest-growing sectors in construction.
Let Excavating Insurance Partners help you get there—with the right insurance, industry insights, and support.