Overview
The Innovation Fund aims to foster competition, lower costs for consumers and network operators, support innovation across the global telecommunications ecosystem, and strengthen the 5G supply chain. The overall objectives include unlocking opportunities for innovative companies, particularly small and medium enterprises, to compete in a market historically dominated by a few suppliers, some of which present a high security risk.
The first NOFO focuses on activities that will promote and improve the open and interoperable RAN testing and evaluation ecosystem, as well as research and development into test methods, and is responsive to feedback NTIA received during listening sessions and the Request for Comment period.
These activities are foundational to the ultimate success of open and interoperable wireless networks and will help build confidence in the viability of Open RAN solutions and remove barriers to adoption.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants and subgrantees include for-profit companies, non-profit companies, institutions of higher education, industry groups, and consortia including two or more such entities.
Download the Notice of Funding Opportunity for more about eligibility requirements and how to participate.
NTIA will support two specific research focus areas under this first NOFO, click below for information regarding funding allocations for R&D and T&E, awardee information, and grant program highlights:
Research and Development
The Research & Development (R&D) focus area provides funding to promote the development of new and/or improved testing methodologies. These methodologies will test, evaluate, and validate the interoperability, performance, and/or security of networks, including their components.
Testing and Evaluation
The Testing & Evaluation (T&E) section provides funding to promote expanding industry-accepted T&E activities. These activities will assess and facilitate the interoperability, performance, and/or security of open and interoperable, standards-based 5G radio access networks.
Year-One Timeline
Stay on Track with Key Dates and Milestones
- NOFO Posted: 4/12/2023
- Applications Due: 6/2/2023
- Rolling Awards Begin: August 2023