UK government launches second round of £200,000 WiFi competition for venues

The UK government has launched the second round of its broadband competition for event venues. The scheme is part of the Tourism Sector Deal and the UK Government’s International Business Events Action Plan, which was launched in August 2019 to improve broadband connectivity in event venues across the country, enabling them to receive full fibre access. Applications for a share of the £200,000 funding are open until 2 March. The latest round is open to event venues with a minimum capacity of 250 delegates. The DCMS is also allowing venues to demonstrate involvement in plans to bid for international events in the next five years, rather than the next year only, which was a requirement during the first round of the competition. Applicants which applied for first round funding but were not successful, and now feel they meet the new eligibility criteria, are welcome to apply for second round. Successful applicants will receive a share of the £200,000 fund, the exact cost will vary per site and location. The upgraded connectivity will be in the form of a new full fibre gigabit capable infrastructure, which can support increased Wi-Fi capacity, more interactive content, and live streaming. This idea behind the scheme gives venues the chance to boost their digital connectivity and produce stronger bids to secure international events. Applicants can apply now using the Google application form. The competition will be open for four weeks and close at 11.59pm on 2 March 2021.