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.

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.

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 within the 5G Discovery Zone with comprehensive support from Rogers and its partners throughout the development process.

Description: Join us for an introductory and informative webinar on Calgary's new 5G test environment, where you can learn how to leverage 5G for product commercialization through pilot trials in key areas like transportation, public safety, and climate. Gain valuable insights by testing your technologies in a real-world setting. The session includes a Q&A.

Register Now to secure your spot and take the first step towards a deeper understanding of how this program can drive your innovations forward!

Dates: Please choose one of the following sessions:

Description: Join us for a deep dive into the technical aspects of Calgary's new 5G test environment. Explore the transformative potential of 5G connectivity, including enhanced reliability, faster speeds, seamless data streaming, better connectivity in crowded areas, and ultra-low latency. The session includes a Q&A.

Register Now to secure your spot and gain insights into the key characteristics of a 5G network and the technical support provided in this innovative program!

Dates: Please choose one of the following sessions:

Calgary’s 5G Discovery Zone is a collaborative project between The City of Calgary, Rogers, Platform Calgary, and Calgary Economic Development. Its primary goal is to create a 5G-enabled test environment in downtown Calgary. Select applicants can experiment and research the capabilities of 5G, conducting pilot trials and developing innovative solutions for appropriate 5G use cases in Transportation and Mobility, Public Safety, and Climate and Environment.

Academia, researchers, start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and innovators are encouraged to participate in Calgary’s 5G Discovery Zone to explore the potential of 5G networks.

Yes, international applicants are welcome to apply to develop their technologies in Calgary. The project aims to foster collaboration and attract diverse perspectives and ideas globally.

No, participation is completely cost-free.

• Transportation and mobility: Solutions for autonomous vehicles, smart intersections, and efficient traffic flow using 5G connectivity.
• Public safety: Real-time communication and data exchange for emergency services, enhancing public safety and response times.
• Climate and environment: Environmental monitoring, sustainable practices, and efficient resource management leveraging the reliability and low latency of the 5G network.

• Businesses: Small and medium-sized enterprises can leverage 5G for growth, efficiency, and product commercialization, and pilot their technologies in a real-world environment. There is also the potential to attract investment, create job opportunities, and position Calgary as a hub for 5G-related solutions.
• Researchers and Academia: The zone will stimulate technological advancements and create opportunities to explore real-world applications and drive innovation.
• City Services: 5G connectivity can enhance public safety, transportation, and environmental initiatives.
• Calgarians: Through new applications and technology, they’ll experience smart city solutions and innovative applications.

Calgary’s 5G Discovery Zone is currently accepting applications. Researchers, startups, and small and medium-sized enterprises can apply through Calgary's 5G Discovery Zone application form.

Applicants will be onboarded at four different moments within the two years of duration of this collaboration. Applications for the first cohort will be open from June 4, 12 p.m. MST to Aug. 31, 11:59 p.m. MST. The application window for the other cohorts will be announced on this page.

The City is working with its partners to select applications. 

The timeline typically takes around 4-5 weeks. 

There is no upper limit on the number. We believe that diverse participation will foster innovative and comprehensive solutions in exploring 5G technology and its benefits for Calgary and Calgarians. 

The 5G Discovery Zone will support selected applicants through three 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 within the 5G Discovery Zone with comprehensive support from Rogers and its partners throughout the development process.

All applications will be carefully considered based on criteria such as:

• Understanding of 5G Technology: a clear understanding of how 5G connectivity can improve their technology or service, whether it’s by its lower latency, higher bandwidth, higher penetration, and/or higher throughput (as compared to previous technologies).
• Relevance with project objectives: the ideal candidate should align with at least one of the three focus areas: Transportation & Mobility, Public Safety, and/or Climate & Environment.
• Project feasibility: Evaluation of the proposed technology readiness level presenting a prototype ready for demonstration in an appropriate operational environment, an articulated a path for commercialization and/or market adoption, and a development roadmap that is demonstrated as clear and feasible.
• Impact and relevancy: The mature concept shows a compelling benefit to the Calgarians, Albertans, and/or Canadians (including social, environmental, and economic factors) and has a significant impact on the participant's business.
• Adequacy (for Themed Challenges): the application clearly answers the proposed challenge statement.

The review and selection are a phased process:

• Initial form: Applicants provide basic information about their concepts and expected technology goals.
• Detailed form: Based on program selection (Connect & Test, Connect & Test Plus or Themed Challenge), applicants need to complete a second form with more detailed information.

• Performance metrics: Assess data transfer speeds, latency, and reliability. Compare 5G results with alternative connectivity options.
• Real-world impact: Consider the impact on addressing real-world challenges, and evaluate the potential for scalability and innovation level in utilizing 5G technology.
• Agreed metrics: Results are evaluated based on predetermined metrics and objectives agreed upon by participants and the Discovery Zone team.

• Infrastructure and tools: Access to 5G network and support to optimize their technologies for 5G capabilities. Additionally, applicants will receive essential testing tools, including SIM cards, devices, and access to specialized technologies.
• Engineering support: Support from Rogers and its partners, including monthly support hours, webinars, and other resources to enhance development and problem-solving.
• Visibility: An opportunity to showcase innovations and solutions to a wider audience. 

Funding will be provided for the winners of the Themed Challenge Program to develop their proof of concepts. No funding will be provided for companies selected for the Connect & Test or Connect & Test Plus Programs.