EU Starts Hunting for the 2017 Best Broadband Connectivity Projects

The European Commission (EC) has kicked off their third annual ‘European Broadband Awards‘ event, which means they’re on the hunt for a short-list of any innovative projects that are helping to provide citizens with access to high-speed broadband internet.

All types of projects – irrespective of their size, location, technologies or funding sources (led by public or private organisations) – are encouraged to apply by 7th September 2017. The only caveat seems to be that at least 80% of the project must be completed by the time an application has been submitted.

The EU generally gives out awards for five related categories (see below) and further details can be found via this application form and the guide for applicants.

The Five Categories for 2017
1. Innovative models of financing, business and investment.
2. Cost reduction and co-investment in a future proof infrastructure.
3. Territorial cohesion in rural and remote areas.
4. Socio-economic impact and affordability.
5. Openness and competition.

Last year the United Kingdom secured its first win when RemIX, which describes itself as the world’s first distributed and wireless Internet Exchange Points (IXP) for community networks, won the “Future-proof and quality of service” category (here).

The winners for 2017 will be announced at a ceremony on 20th November 2017 and showcased at the Broadband Day in Brussels. The winners will also be featured in DG Connect’s website, newsletters and will be displayed in the good practice database of Broadband Europe.

In other words the winners don’t get much in the way of a prize, except for some extra publicity and a platform to share their approach with others. Hopefully some project’s from the UK will apply.