The U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is refocusing its Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund to support the development of AI-native telecommunications networks, signaling a shift toward integrating artificial intelligence into next-generation communications infrastructure.
The updated direction aligns with the administration’s broader technology strategy outlined in the AI Action Plan, which calls for policies that encourage private-sector, U.S.-led development of artificial intelligence technologies.
As part of the shift, NTIA is preparing a new Notice of Funding Opportunity focused specifically on integrating AI into radio access networks, a critical component of modern wireless infrastructure.
To gather input, the agency will hold a public listening session on March 23 to collect feedback from industry stakeholders and the public.
Launched in 2023 with authorization from the United States Congress, the Innovation Fund was originally designed to strengthen American leadership in wireless technology while improving innovation, competition, and supply chain resilience. Federal officials say artificial intelligence is now becoming central to the evolution of modern communications networks.
NTIA also confirmed that it will not issue awards under the third planned funding notice of the Innovation Fund as it reorients the program toward AI-driven telecommunications innovation.