Finnish operators apply for more than EUR 81 million of EU funding for five digital projects

Finnish operators apply for a total of EUR 81.04 million in funding from the European Commission’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) for five communications projects. On 8 February 2024, the Ministerial Finance Committee endorsed the applications.

In this round of applications, there is EUR 241 million in EU funding available within the CEF Communications Programme for high capacity backbone networks and for 5G infrastructure for transport routes and local public services. In particular, funding is provided for improving backbone connectivity, for finding 5G solutions for local public services and for improving 5G coverage along cross-border transport corridors.
 
“We are applying for EU funding in full. With the projects, we will improve the digital connections in our everyday life, strengthen the security of supply and promote Finnish innovations,” says Minister of Transport and Communications Lulu Ranne.

Funding applied for submarine cables and 5G solutions

The following Finnish projects are applying for funding:

1. Far North Fiber Europe 2

FNF Europe Ltd is applying for EUR 50 million. The project is a Europe-based part of a larger Far North Fiber project. It will construct the first intercontinental submarine cable system connecting Europe with Asia through the Northwest Passage in North America. 

2. C-Lion2 Construction

C-Lion2 Ltd is applying for EUR 25 million. The project will construct a new, fully operational submarine cable system between Finland, Sweden and Germany.

3. Carewings-5G

Digita Oy, which coordinates the project, is applying for EUR 1.81 million. In the project, a private 5G network will be implemented at Pyhtää airport, sensors and cameras will be connected to the 5G network, and three drone-based experiments will be carried out.

4. 5G Sport Campus

Digita Oy, which coordinates the project, is applying for EUR 3.17 million. The project will implement a private 5G infrastructure in a sports centre, which will enable more advanced wireless AI-based development and training services in physical activity and fitness.

5. Southern-Savonia Digital

Suur-Savon Sähkö Oy, which coordinates the project, is applying for EUR 1.06 million. The project will strengthen the local 5G network for digital healthcare and social welfare services in South Savo.

What’s next?

The deadline for the call for proposals by the European Commission is 20 February 2024. According to an indicative timeline released by the Commission, decisions on the granting of funding will be made in autumn 2024.

Inquiries:

Sofia Lindbäck, Senior Specialist, sofia.lindback(at)gov.fi, tel. +358 295 342 165
 
Lauri Mustonen, Senior Specialist, lauri.mustonen(at)gov.fi, tel. +358 295 342 252