The European Commission (EC) invited interested parties to bid for fresh funding aimed squarely at improving 5G, cloud infrastructure and high-speed Gigabit networks throughout the European Union.Faster Internet Connections
A total of €258 million is currently up for grabs and appears to be spread over 11 projects with a submission deadline of 22 March. A particular focus is being placed on 5G coverage along cross-border corridors and for local communities.
The call for proposals comes under the digital part of Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Digital), a key EU funding instrument. The move follows the adoption of the first work program for CEF Digital in December 2021, which earmarked more than €1 billion in funding for the period from 2021 to 2023.
A total planned budget for CEF Digital is up to €2 billion by 2027. The entire Connecting Europe Facility program, which supports investment in trans-European digital, transport, and energy networks, is worth €33.7 billion from 2021 to 2027.
A initial generation of CEF, covering 2014 to 2020, contributed to free Wi-Fi program WiFi4EU, along with other cross-border digital infrastructures and services, the EC noted.
Author: Tim Cole
Image Credit: Pixabay
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