Funding for communication network innovations

£500,000 for next-gen communication solutions

Innovate UK is inviting UK-registered micro and small businesses to apply for a share of £500,000 to develop affordable and innovative communication network solutions.

To be eligible, your innovations should:

• lead to new products, processes or services superior to others currently available
• propose innovative uses for existing products, processes or services
• involve a new or innovative business models

Projects must focus on improving digital communications in areas such as:

• enhancing network performance with technologies like AI or data analytics
• implementing software-defined networks
• adopting open standards in networks
• exploring non-terrestrial networking technologies
• developing neutral host and mesh networking technologies

Projects should cost between £25,000 and £50,000.

Alongside financial support, businesses will receive tailored business assistance from Innovate UK Business Growth.

Find details of the new Innovators in Communication Networks competition.

This funding is part of a larger £70 million investment by UK Research and Innovation Technology Missions Fund, aiming to accelerate market-ready solutions and foster collaboration in the UK's telecoms sector.

First published 30 April 2024