Building the UK’s Capability to shape the next generation of communications network
In 2023, the government identified future telecoms as one of the five critical technologies in the Science and Technology Framework – making a long-term commitment to foster next generation connectivity solutions in the UK as a key pillar for future prosperity, security and resilience.
Alongside this, the government announced a package of measures to drive the deployment and adoption of fixed and wireless networks and to invest in the next generation of connectivity. This included an initial investment of up to £100 million in a new Future Telecoms mission that fits within the wider DSIT Technology Mission Fund (TMF) missions. This ensures the UK is at the cutting-edge of future telecoms and 6G technologies – supporting domestic and international companies to build their portfolio of exciting solutions through the UK’s world-leading innovation ecosystem.
A key element of this mission is support for a series of Future Telecoms Research Hubs. These hubs will bring together multiple universities and institutions around the country to conduct early-stage research into cutting-edge technologies. This work will be coordinated by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Support for early-stage research will be complemented by funding for a range of application focussed ‘challenges’, delivered via Innovate UK. This will support companies and researchers to accelerate innovative solutions to market, and encourage disruptive collaboration across the UK’s diverse Future Telecoms landscape. These competitions will cover challenges such as Network of Networks, Advanced Optical Networks and Next Generation Wireless, while also considering areas like performance, coverage, security, resilience, spectrum efficiency, cost-effective deployment, and energy efficiency.