Interim evaluation of 5G Testbeds and Trials Programme
Research reports that summarise the interim evaluation into the 5G Testbeds and Trials programme.
Documents
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The 5G Testbeds and trials programme was set up in 2017 to maximise the prospective benefits that 5G could bring to the UK economy through real world deployments and applications. The interim evaluation is the second of 3 evaluations into the programme, with the first being the initial evaluation in 2020.
RSM ran the evaluation on behalf of DCMS between 2022 and 2023. The evaluation used a theory-based approach, focusing on process and impact outcomes. This includes the running of the competition, payment of grants, research outcomes and 5G impacts.
The key findings include:
- the programme effectively and efficiently delivered competition processes and gave support to projects
- for every £1 spent by the programme, an additional £1.65 to £2.30 was invested in 5G activities
- on average, technological readiness levels (TRLs) increased by 1.7
- 20 of 37 (54%) projects brought a new product or service to the market, and 29 of the 37 (78%) projects developed or incorporated process improvements after being in the programme
The final evaluation into the programme will report in 2025.