Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund

Although 5G is dynamic, the 5G equipment market is static. A small group of companies dominate the market, some of whom pose a serious national security threat. The lack of competition degrades supply chains, causes higher prices, and prevents emerging players from entering the market.

Open Radio Access Networks (Open RAN) are key to tackling these market challenges. Traditional networks rely on a single company to supply every component. Open RAN, on the other hand, is interoperable. Network architects can curate parts from different suppliers to build the best possible network. New suppliers can now enter the market with one part instead of an entire network architecture. By transitioning to Open RAN, the U.S. and partner countries can help the wireless ecosystem flourish for 5G and beyond.

The Biden-Harris Administration will advance Open RAN through the $1.5 billion Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund. The Innovation Fund was authorized under the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 provided funding for the program. Over the next decade, the Innovation Fund will drive wireless innovation, competition, and supply chain resilience. Its investments will open new doors for companies from the United States and partner nations.

The Innovation Fund will:

• Promote 5G+ technologies that are secure, open, and virtualized.
• Advance the deployment of open and interoperable equipment.
• Support the integration of networks with multiple brands of equipment.
• Identify criteria to decide if equipment follows open standards.

The Innovation Fund recently announced an upcoming Listening Session, to inform the future Notice of Funding Opportunity.

NTIA is eager to implement the Innovation Fund. We will share more details about the programs as they become available. If you have questions about the Innovation Fund, please contact us. You can also subscribe for updates about the Fund.