US Ignite to Fund $10 Million in Gigabit Network Research Grants

Pete CodellaBroadband

US ignite gigabit research The National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced a new solicitation for research and development proposals through its US Ignite initiative.  The organization will fund up to $10 million in grants for projects aimed to advance gigabit network protocols and infrastructure, as well as develop new applications that further the use of high-speed infrastructure. 

The new solicitation focuses R&D in two directions.  Focus area one builds on previous US ignite goals to develop applications and prototypes that explore new uses for high-speed networks that might spark Smart and Connected Communities across the US.   Focus area two is for projects that propose significant advances in networking infrastructure that could better enable current and future gigabit applications.  Proposals are due June 14th of this year.

Consistent with its many efforts to promote broadband development, accessibility, and adoption throughout the US, The White House and the NSF announced US Ignite in June of 2012.  US Ignite is aimed at realizing the potential of high-speed and next generation networks.  The program seeks partners in industry, academia, and government to help create future networks that can have a transformative public benefit in areas such as health, education, workforce development, public safety, and transportation.