Commission launched the first calls for proposals under the digital component of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Digital).

Commission launched the first calls for proposals under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Digital) digital component. With a planned budget of EUR 258 million, calls aim to improve digital connectivity infrastructure, in particular gigabit and 5G networks across the Union, and contribute to Europe’s digital transformation.

The Commission will co-finance actions aimed at equipping Europe’s main transport routes and providers of essential services in local communities with 5G connectivity, as well as measures to deploy or upgrade key networks based on advanced technologies.

Calls will also focus on cloud service connectivity infrastructure, digital global gateway infrastructure such as submarine cables, and preparatory measures to establish operational digital platforms for transport and energy infrastructure across the EU.

The call follows the adoption of the first CEF Digital Work Programme in December 2021, which provided more than EUR 1 billion in funding for the period 2021-2030. — 2023. CEF calls in the digital sector are mainly open to entities established in Member States and Overseas Countries or Territories. Interested candidates can learn more about the application, evaluation and award procedures as part of the online information day on 19 January.

Second generation digital component of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF-2) (2021 Building on the previous generation supporting cross-border digital infrastructures and services and free internet access for local communities under the 2014-2020 WiFi4EU initiative. — 2020.

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