The European Commission recently opened the fourth series of calls for proposals, representing a total value of 323 million euros. These calls are part of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) programme. The purpose of these calls is to accelerate the deployment of fast, secure and sustainable advanced infrastructures, including backbone connectivity, 5G networks and quantum communications.
Opportunities for public-private partnerships
This round of funding offers significant opportunities for public-private partnerships. Companies and government agencies that work together can draw on the available resources to realise innovative digital infrastructure projects. This aligns with Topsector ICT’s goals to advance the digital transition in the Netherlands.
Key calls under this programme include:
- Backbone Connectivity for Digital Global Gateways: This call, with a budget of 128 million euros, supports the deployment of backbone connections to improve the performance and resilience of connectivity networks within the EU. Communication networks are one of the forces driving society’s digitalisation, as described in the digital connectivity key enabling technology.
- 5G Large-Scale Pilots: This call, worth 105 million euros, is concerned with the deployment of 5G infrastructure for smart communities and transport corridors. The purpose is to enable innovative services, such as Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM).
- European Quantum Communication Infrastructures (EuroQCI): This call, with a budget of 90 million euros, will fund the interconnection of national quantum communication infrastructure networks across borders.
Application procedure
Anyone who is interested has until 5 p.m. on 13 February 2025 to submit their proposal.
Further details are available in the European Commission’s Tender Portal