UK-based organisations can apply for funding to support the development of open network solutions.

The Open Networks Ecosystem Competition is offering funding in the next phase of the UK Open Networks Research and Development Fund. Funding is available to develop a range of software and hardware products that will enable enhanced development and adoption of open and interoperable technology.

There will also be an opportunity to apply for funding for demonstrations of Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technologies in high demand density environments. This technology allows equipment from multiple suppliers to be used in 5G networks and will end their current dependence on one company’s technology to function.

The competition aims to tackle barriers to the adoption of open mobile networks in three key challenge areas:

• High Demand Density (HDD) Use Cases/Demonstrations
• RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) and other RAN Software
• Processors, Radio Frequency (RF), and other RAN Hardware

Funded projects will drive the adoption of Open RAN and related technologies by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and private network operators, and enable diversity in the UK’s telecoms networks.

There is up to £80 million of grant funding available in this competition (for eligible costs in FY23/24 and FY24/25). Grants ranging from £1 million to £10 million will be made available to individual projects.

This competition is open to applications from UK-based organisations. In order to apply, all consortium members must be a UK registered business, research and knowledge-dissemination organisation, charity, public sector organisation or research and technology organisation (RTO).

The deadline for applications is 23 May 2023 (23:59 BST).

How To Apply

The competition opened on 14 March 2023. The deadline for applications is 23 May 2023 (23:59 BST).

More information can be accessed at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology website.