Greater Manchester is one of ten areas in the country to receive a share of £36 million to accelerate 5G-enabled innovation
The funding will see 5G Innovation Regions (5GIRs) invest in local projects to boost advanced wireless connectivity across a wide range of sectors, including public services, sustainable farming and road safety
Greater Manchester Combined Authority will receive over £3 million, part of which will be used to 5G-enable hundreds of air source heat pumps across social housing in the region
The announcement comes as a new advisory group with representatives from all four parts of the UK is launched. The board will support local areas to put recommendations to government on how to support their digital connectivity goals, encourage investment, and promote adoption at a local level.
Minister of Data and Digital Infrastructure Sir John Whittingdale said:
We’re channelling millions into local areas to unlock the potential of cutting-edge 5Gwireless and digital technologies which will reshape our public services, drive economic growth and boost innovation. This new fund will give local areas from across the country the opportunity to be at the forefront of Britain’s world-leading 5G revolution.
For instance, by using 5G for farming and creating science parks, we’re not just helping local communities, but also encouraging new ideas all over the UK. This is more than just linking smartphones. It’s about using powerful digital connections to transform various sectors in the economy and the public sector throughout the entire country.
