Microelectronics Technology Awarded near US$35 Million in Funding for Wireless Innovation as Part of Biden-Harris Administration’s NOFO2 Initiative
Hsinchu, Taiwan — Dec. 16, 2024 — The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has awarded near US$35 million in funding through the NOFO2 (Notice of Funding Opportunity) program to Microelectronics Technology Inc., a leading innovator in the field of wireless solutions for 5G Open RAN. This investment will support the company’s efforts to develop advanced radio technologies and next-generation wireless infrastructure that will help expand the use of Open RAN at MNOs (Mobile Network Operators) across the United States and globally. The project is funded by the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, which aims to promote wireless innovation, foster competition, and enhance supply chain resilience.
Microelectronics Technology Inc. is one of seven key recipients selected to drive forward wireless innovation and Open RAN, particularly in the development of state-of-the-art, energy-efficient 5G technologies for Open RAN radios, and other cutting-edge solutions. The funding will enable the company to accelerate the deployment of high-speed wireless networks and improve digital equity for rural, remote, and low-income communities.
"We are thrilled and honored to receive this award from the Biden-Harris Administration," said Eugene Wu, CEO at Microelectronics Technology Inc. "This investment will allow us to push the boundaries of wireless innovation and deliver the next generation of radio solutions that will connect mobile network users using the latest wireless technologies. Our longstanding collaboration with ITRI and our involvement in international forums like the U.S.-Taiwan-5G Open Networking Forum and the 2024 5G Summit are vital to shaping the global future of wireless technology. This funding supports our continued efforts to innovate and deliver the next generation of wireless solutions that will empower communities across the U.S. and globally"
As part of the program, MTI will be receiving close to US$35 million in funding in a two-year program, and will be working with four global Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to deliver five different high-power macro Open RAN radio units. These advanced radio units will support the expansion and upgrade of 5G networks, offering flexible, efficient and reliable wireless solutions for global markets. MTI will continue to collaborate with global partners in Open RAN deployments and promote Open RAN as a core technology for the next generation of wireless networks, and to accelerate adoption of Open RAN. MTI will be working closely with the MNOs in the program in the effort to accelerate the adoption of Open RAN.
“As a leading research and development institution, ITRI is committed to fostering global collaboration and advancing the future of telecommunications. Through the guidance of the Industrial Development Administration (IDA), Ministry of Economic Affairs, we have been able to support MTI’s efforts to revolutionize wireless infrastructure and bridge the digital divide. IDA’s leadership in fostering cross-border partnerships and driving innovation in critical sectors such as telecommunications has been instrumental in developing interoperable, secure, and scalable 5G solutions. Initiatives such as the Taiwan-US Delegation and the 5G Summit showcase our shared commitment to advancing next-generation wireless technologies and shaping a more connected, innovative future for communities worldwide.”
-Dr. Fanghei Tsau, General Director of Southern Region Campus, Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI)
NTIA Award Notice
MTI’s Leadership in Open RAN and Wireless Innovation:
Since 2018, MTI has been deeply committed to advancing Open RAN — a disruptive shift in wireless network architecture that promotes openness, interoperability, and vendor diversity. As the wireless industry moves toward 5G, Open RAN is emerging as a crucial technology to unlock the potential of next-generation networks. By investing in Open RAN, MTI has been able to contribute to the global evolution of telecommunications infrastructure, making it more flexible, efficient, and cost-effective.
The NOFO2 funding will empower MTI to continue pioneering Open RAN solutions, further enhancing its capabilities in the areas of network virtualization, edge computing, and semiconductor innovations. These efforts align with the U.S. government’s broader strategy to support 5GOpen RAN deployment and improve the accessibility and affordability of high-speed broadband.
The funding will also enable MTI to accelerate research and development efforts in technologies that power 5G radios, cloud-native solutions, and software-defined networks. These developments will improve wireless network performance, reduce deployment costs, and accelerate the rollout of 5G and next-gen broadband services to rural and underserved communities across the nation.
About IDA:
The Industrial Development Administration (IDA), under Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), plays a key role in driving industrial growth and innovation. IDA supports critical sectors such as telecommunications, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing by fostering global partnerships, promoting supply chain diversity, and advancing the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. Through collaboration with international organizations, research institutions, and industry leaders, IDA accelerates the development of 5G, Open RAN, and other next-generation technologies. Through its efforts, IDA reinforces Taiwan’s position as a global hub for innovation and contribute to a more connected, innovative, and resilient global economy.
About ITRI:
The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) is Taiwan’s leading research and development institution. With a focus on advancing key technologies like 5G, semiconductors, and Open RAN, ITRI fosters innovation and collaboration with global partners to drive technological growth. ITRI has played a crucial role in facilitating key international discussions and partnerships in the telecommunications sector.
