UK invests £88M in Open RAN initiatives transforming mobile connectivity

The UK Government has invested £88 million into 19 groundbreaking Open RAN initiatives under the Open Networks Ecosystem (ONE) competition.

Open RAN technology represents a paradigm shift in how mobile networks are built. Rather than relying solely on a single company's equipment, it allows various companies' technologies to be interoperable.

Nick Johnson, Head of UK Telecoms Innovation Network (UKTIN), said: 

“The Government’s funding to tackle...

14 September 2023 | 5G

UK announces fund to revolutionise connectivity with satellites

The UK has announced a £160 million investment in the Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit scheme (CLEO).

Science and Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan unveiled the scheme, which aims to deliver the next generation of high-tech satellites to boost internet connectivity and bridge digital divides across the country.

CLEO is set to capitalise on the latest advancements in space technology, particularly Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, renowned for their resilience and...

1 August 2023 | Legislation & Government

UK announces space infrastructure fund

The UK government is taking significant strides to bolster the country's space sector with the launch of the Space Clusters and Infrastructure Fund (SCIF).

This initiative marks the first dedicated fund for UK space infrastructure and aims to accelerate the development of R&D facilities necessary for making space products mission-ready and commercially viable.

Investment in space R&D infrastructure is crucial for fostering the growth of the UK's space and...

24 May 2023 | Hot Topics

GSMA launches ‘climate resilience’ innovation fund

The GSMA has launched an innovation fund to support the creation and deployment of “climate resilience” solutions.

While everyone is affected by climate change, some populations are more vulnerable than others. The GSMA aims to support SMEs and startups that are building solutions that will help such communities anticipate, absorb, and/or adapt to climate-related shocks.

Max Cuvellier, Head of Mobile for Development at the GSMA, said:

“De-risking...

17 March 2023 | Hot Topics

UKSA announces £15M satellite communications fund

The UK Space Agency (UKSA) has unveiled a £15 million fund to support British firms revolutionising satellite communications.

Ideas that could be eligible for funding include satellite constellations, ground systems, or the provision of new services.

Science Minister Nusrat Ghani commented:

“I am proud to be representing the UK space sector as we discuss our ambitions ahead of the ESA Council of Ministers next month. There are a series of important...

17 October 2022 | Legislation & Government