The Open RAN Policy Coalition is thrilled to extend our congratulations to Nokia, JMA Wireless, and MTI on being selected for awards from the U.S. government’s Wireless Innovation Fund. The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced more than $273 million in awards as part of the first batch of grants from the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund’s second Notice of Funding Opportunity. This initiative is aimed at fostering Open RAN and strengthening the wireless supply chain. The awards represent a major investment in the technologies that will define the next generation of connectivity.
Among the recipients, Nokia was awarded a $45 million grant to develop cutting-edge wireless solutions that leverage the power of Open RAN. According to Nokia’s official announcement, this grant will propel the company’s efforts to innovate in areas critical to enhancing network efficiency, security, and performance.
JMA Wireless received $43.94 million to develop the American Ruggedized Modular O-RAN Radio (ARMOR) platform. This project will support multiple Open Radio Unit variants designed to be energy-efficient. By streamlining radio unit components, the ARMOR platform will enable cost-effective, high-power macro radios and in-building/small cell product lines for mobile network operators.
Microelectronics Technology Inc. (MTI) was awarded $34.96 million for the development of five energy-efficient Open RAN macro radios. The radios are tailored to operate with four worldwide mobile network operators, and highlight the potential of Open RAN technologies to meet the diverse needs of global telecommunications markets while maintaining a focus on energy efficiency and innovation.
Open RAN, in particular, plays a crucial role in creating a diversified and resilient supply chain; congrats to these innovative companies on their work, and we look forward to witnessing the groundbreaking developments that will emerge from these investments.