EU to invest €865 million in digital infrastructure expansion
The initiative supports the EU’s 2030 Digital Decade goals to provide universal access to high-speed internet.
The European Commission has announced a significant investment in the continent’s digital infrastructure through its second work program under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital, allocating €865 million in funding from 2024 to 2027. That initiative will target large-scale projects promoting the rollout of 5G and gigabit networks in key sectors such as healthcare, transport, logistics, and manufacturing.
By focusing on these industries, the EU aims to drive the integration of advanced technologies to meet increasing digital demands. The program also seeks to expand Europe’s digital backbone by strengthening quantum communication networks and laying new submarine cables to enhance connectivity with third countries.
Additionally, it will develop digital platforms for transport and energy, optimising ICT energy use while minimising environmental impact and ensuring seamless integration with existing European data, cloud, and connectivity infrastructures.
That initiative supports the EU’s ambitious 2030 Digital Decade goals, which aim to provide all citizens and businesses access to 5G and gigabit-speed internet. Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for Europe Fit for the Digital Age, emphasised the importance of enhancing connectivity to foster innovation and connect more citizens and businesses.
With a total budget of €2 billion until 2027, the broader CEF Digital program has already funded 65 projects, including 5G Smart Communities and cross-border 5G corridors. It plans to launch a fourth call for project proposals to accelerate digital transformation further.
