Webinar recording: ACT R&D programme industry briefing
The programme is designed to accelerate innovation, commercialisation, and growth in the telecom sector, aligning closely with the UK government’s industrial strategy and its focus on digital and technology-driven economic growth.
The ACT R&D programme builds on the UK’s strengths in advanced connectivity, including wireless networks, 5G/6G, optical communications, and the integration of emerging technologies. Its mission is to bridge the gap between research and commercialisation, supporting companies in developing the next generation of communications technologies.
Support for innovation between companies and academia
The programme is underpinned by four pillars of support: R&D investment, access to labs and facilities, spectrum management, and international collaboration on standards and joint research projects. Challenge-oriented funding mechanisms will focus on critical areas such as network security, resilience, and sustainability, ensuring that projects advance technical capability while addressing strategic telecom needs.
ACT R&D programme industry briefing presentation
Further engagement and next steps
The ACT R&D programme emphasises robust governance and regulatory alignment. While industry collaboration is a priority, connecting SMEs to university testbeds and involving major operators in advisory and technical projects, international engagement with EU partners and Horizon Europe maximises global scale-up and adoption opportunities.
Stakeholders are encouraged to contribute to the UK’s digital infrastructure through the techUK Advanced Communications Technologies Working Group, bringing together industry and government to accelerate innovation across wireless, satellite, and emerging connectivity solutions. Participants can also join the Advanced Comms Tech Forum to explore real-world applications and future opportunities.
The ACT R&D programme represents a pivotal step in advancing the UK’s next-generation connectivity, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government, and offering innovators multiple pathways to contribute to secure, resilient, and sustainable telecom networks.
