5G innovation at the University of Surrey helps secure GBP5m investment to boost region-wide growth

The funding, which is being made available over a five year period, supports future 5G growth across the region and recognises the University's flagship project, the 5G Innovation Centre (5GIC), as a key driver for economic growth in the region. Together with a consortium of industry partners including Aeroflex, AIRCOM International, BBC, BT, EE, Fujitsu, Huawei, Ofcom, Rohde & Schwarz, Samsung, Telefonica and Vodafone, the Centre conducts research into the development of advanced technologies for a 5G network of the future, to establish a world-leading position in mobile broadband communications and internet innovations.

'We are delighted to hear the excellent news of Enterprise M3's successful bid in attracting funding to our region,' says Professor Sir Christopher Snowden, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Surrey. 'The University of Surrey has been working very closely with the LEP and other key partners to develop an economic strategy for Surrey and Hampshire, which capitalises on the region's strengths and plays to its potential as a leader in the connected digital economy.'

'The 5GIC is the world's first dedicated research centre for 5G technology and an international hub for telecommunications research and innovation. Our vision is for the centre to play a crucial role in developments connected with the Internet of Things, intelligent transportation, 'smart' cities and Future Internet technologies, with significant benefits for UK business innovation, profitability and efficiency.

'This funding, which prioritises the development and expansion of 5G mobile technology in the region, provides an exciting opportunity to accelerate 5G's impact locally, helping Surrey and Hampshire based companies get a head start on what the new technology will enable, in terms of growth and investment, for both the UK and global economies

'Kathy Slack, CEO of Enterprise M3, her team and the Board are to be congratulated on the work they have done to secure the bid in the face of strong competition for government funding from other UK regions.'

Geoff French, Chair of Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership, commented: "I am delighted that we now have the funds to support world leading 5G innovation projects through the Enterprise M3 Growth Deal. " The Enterprise M3 LEP lobbied hard to secure funding to support the work of the University of Surrey and its partners, which will help reinforce the region's position as a leading centre for mobile telephony innovation both nationally and internationally. The 5G Arrow centre on the University of Surrey's campus will harness the market leading technological skills in the region and is truly a 'next generation' project."

The funding builds on the existing investment of over £65m in funds and other resources made by the University, the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) and 5G industry partners in the development of the 5G Innovation Centre on the University's Stag Hill campus in Guildford.

Provided by University of Surrey