Calgary,
04
June
2024
|
09:30
America/Denver

The City of Calgary’s 5G Discovery Zone – accelerating innovation in Canada's first downtown 5G test environment

Today’s launch of Calgary’s 5G Discovery Zone, a collaboration with Rogers, Platform Calgary and Calgary Economic Development, marks a significant milestone in the city’s journey toward becoming a globally recognized technology and innovation hub. Canada's first downtown 5G test environment will enable researchers, developers and companies to develop, refine and test new applications and technologies that leverage the benefits of 5G networks.

By leveraging existing infrastructure, the 5G Discovery Zone streamlines connectivity and testing environments, making it easier for academia, researchers, start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises to research and commercialize their products. Within this test environment, collaborators can explore the potential of 5G connectivity and enhance their products and services. Collaborators will also be able to investigate the economic benefits and opportunities that can be unlocked through enhanced 5G connectivity.

The 5G Discovery Zone facilitates innovation through three key programs:

  • Connect & Test Program: This program encourages small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups to submit their proposed experiments for the 5G Discovery Zone. A Rogers-led panel will select promising concepts and equip the participants with essential tools for independent testing, such as SIM cards, devices and access to specialized technologies. 
  • Connect & Test Plus Program: Small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups participating in the Connect & Test Program will have the option to join this mentorship program, which is designed to accelerate the development of their 5G use cases within the 5G Discovery Zone. Program participants will receive engineering support from Rogers and its partners, including monthly support hours, webinars and other resources. 
  • Themed Challenges Program: This program invites small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups to submit their ideas for 5G application ideas that address specific challenges in transportation and mobility, public safety and climate and environment. Winning ideas will receive funding to develop their Proof of Concept (POC) within the 5G Discovery Zone, with comprehensive support from Rogers and its partners throughout the development process.

Mayor Jyoti Gondek states, “as we introduce the 5G Discovery Zone, we’re embarking on a journey to improve public safety, mobility and climate resilience in Calgary. This initiative demonstrates The City’s strong commitment to fostering innovation, supporting local businesses and delivering solutions. Together, we’re building a sustainable and adaptable Calgary.”

“As Canada’s largest and most reliable 5G network provider, we’re focused on using our network to drive innovation and bring industry-leading technology to Canadians. As part of our investment in western Canada, this testbed will enable The City of Calgary and developers in advancing 5G applications that contribute to improving public safety in Canada and our climate and environment,” says Ron McKenzie, Chief Technology and Information Officer, Rogers Communications.

Terry Rock, President and CEO of Platform Calgary remarks, “Calgary innovators are building the technologies that will solve some of the most dynamic issues facing the world today. The 5G Discovery Zone provides another tool for Calgary’s innovation community that will result in more opportunities to start and scale world class tech companies right here in one of the world’s fastest growing tech markets.”

“With a strong, growing technology and innovation ecosystem, Calgarians are solving some of the biggest global challenges,” adds Brad Parry, President and CEO of Calgary Economic Development. “This collaboration on Calgary’s 5G Discovery Zone is yet another example of how we are building an environment where companies can test, develop and scale to compete globally – right here in our city.”

The applications for the first of the three programs – the Connect & Test Program – are now being accepted until Aug. 31, 2024. Interested parties are invited to apply and outline their technical requirements on Calgary's 5G Discovery Zone Application Form.

For more information, please visit calgary.ca/5GDiscoveryZone.