Digital infrastructure events

Three free online webinars on Monday, September 21 are dedicated to the benefits and opportunities of full fibre broadband, 5G and innovative digital technology.

It is an opportunity to hear from digital partners working closely with City of Wolverhampton Council in the city such as CityFibre, WM5G and the University of Wolverhampton.

CityFibre, the UK’s third national digital infrastructure platform, is investing at least £50 million to deliver a full fibre network to reach almost every home and business in the city and make Wolverhampton one of the best-connected cities in the world.

Wolverhampton is one of only 13 cities nationwide where all four mobile network operators have announced the rollout of 5G, with two operators already live. Through the council’s partnership with WM5G, the city will also benefit from a 5PRING Application Accelerator which will allow businesses to explore the potential of 5G and support businesses to exploit this new technology.

The university is helping businesses discover how to use proven technologies for digital innovation for growth.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, council cabinet member for city economy, said: “Digital infrastructure is critical to the city’s recovery from Covid-19.

“The theme for the Business Week’s flagship breakfast event is ‘Better Connected’ and a high-profile line-up of speakers will showcase how digital innovation is changing how we work and is set to change our city.

“So there is no better way to kick off the week than through these three events that demonstrate what great strides Wolverhampton making with its digital strategy.

“The current coronavirus crisis is a huge challenge to many of our families and businesses. It also highlights the importance of having a strong and effective digital infrastructure to support us to stay safe, keep businesses going and, most importantly, save lives.

“We’re committed to the rollout of future proofed digital infrastructure and, through our partners, we are well placed to connect the city’s businesses to the latest technology.”

It’s critical we ensure the benefits reach local residents and businesses, as well as supporting the delivery of our public services. This has never been more important given the current challenges our region faces.”

The three webinars taking place on September 21 are: Business Advantages in Gigabit Cities - In this session CityFibre will discuss why digital infrastructure is crucial to growing and protecting the local economy and the benefits full fibre connectivity brings including; increased business productivity and innovation; adding value to property prices; unlocking flexibility in the workforce. (1.45pm to 2.45pm).

Benefits of 5G and 5PRING Application Accelerator – Local businesses interested in finding out what benefits 5G can bring to their business and the support available to explore the art of the possible through the 5PRING Application Accelerator. (3pm to 4pm).

Discovering digital innovation technologies for business growth – Discover the potential behind the seven proven technologies that can help your business recover more quickly from the impacts of Covid-19. (4.15pm to 5pm).

All Business Week 2020 events from September 21 to 25 are free and to find out more information and register head to www.investwolverhampton.gov.uk/businessweek