In 2020, Hungary was the fourth country in Europe to develop an artificial intelligence strategy at the government level.Continue reading
Starting in August, companies in the information and communications sector can apply for funding for developments that improve the quality of broadband services and expand wireless coverage. Thanks to the Gigabit Hungary Program, high-speed internet connections can be established in up to 174 counties outside Budapest, reaching 300,000 rural families, businesses, and institutions, Károly Balázs Solymár, State Secretary for Infocommunication at the Ministry of Energy announced on Tuesday.
Thanks to previous government programs, Hungary has reached a level of digital infrastructure development that is above the EU average, said the politician. Domestic gigabit coverage exceeded 80 percent last year, and
the new initiative will bring modern broadband services to areas that are currently underserved by encouraging companies in the sector.
Micro, small, medium, and large enterprises operating in the information and communications sector are eligible to apply for non-repayable grants under the Gigabit Hungary Program.
With a 10 percent own contribution, funding ranging from HUF 20 million (EUR 50,000) to HUF 3.5 billion (EUR 8.7 million) can be obtained for a project from the total budget of HUF 84.86 billion (EUR 212 million). A maximum of one quarter of the awarded grant can be paid as an advance, and in the case of SMEs, a maximum of HUF 500 million (EUR 1.2 million) can be paid. Applications can be submitted in two stages, first between August 8 and 26, 2025, and then between September 26 and October 21, 2025. The deadline for the implementation of the supported investments is the end of 2028.
Modern infrastructure that is accessible to everyone is a basic prerequisite for the further development of the digital society, economy, and public administration, reads the Ministry of Energy’s statement. The call for proposals also contributes to the spread of 5G networks in all populated areas, they emphasized.
Via MTI, Featured image: Pixabay