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Test

Transform

Innovate

Develop

The Future of Connectivity Starts Here

About

Lab of the North is a federated innovation centre uniting leading universities, industry partners, and public sector organisations across the North of England.

We develop, test, and deploy next-generation connectivity solutions — from 5G and 6G to IoT, edge computing, and private networks. Our mission is to accelerate real-world innovation that transforms industries and communities.

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Partners

Lab of the North is powered by a growing alliance of partners from across the North of England. Together, we are creating a shared platform to unlock the full potential of advanced connectivity — for our industries, communities, and future generations.

Our partners come from five core sectors:

  • Universities – World-leading research and facilities
  • SMEs – Agile innovators solving real-world problems
  • Large Industry – Sector leaders driving deployment and scale
  • Local Government – Enabling public transformation and regional growth
  • Specialised Facilities – Testbeds, labs, and unique physical assets
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Our Services

From transport and manufacturing to energy, health and defence — Lab of the North is helping unlock the next wave of digital transformation.
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1. Innovation Testbeds & Trials

We offer access to real-world and simulated environments for: Advanced Communications – 5G/6G network...
Benefit to user: Rapid prototyping, reduced cost of early experimentation, access to diverse settings (labs, cities, transport, manufacturing)
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2. Collaborative Research & Development

We facilitate and manage collaborative R&D projects between partners, universities, and third-party funders (e.g....
Benefit to user: Shared risk, pooled expertise, greater chance of funding success and innovation scale-up
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3. Technical Services & Expertise

Lab of the North coordinates access to deep technical expertise across multiple domains: RF...
Benefit to user: Flexible access to specialised capabilities across the North, matched to your challenge
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4. Facilities & Equipment Access

Use pooled specialist assets across the Lab of the North Partner network: RF engineering,...
Benefit to user: No need to build from scratch — leverage what already exists
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5. Training & CPD

We provide access to bespoke training services: Hands-on use of testbeds and equipment Seminars...
Benefit to user: Upskill your team and increase your capacity to innovate
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6. Advisory & Engagement Support

Our central resource team acts as a neutral broker to help you: Define use...
Benefit to user: Navigate complexity with tailored guidance from a collaborative ecosystem
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    Use Cases & Projects

    See some examples of our work, partner collaborations and our development and testing facilities.
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    Get Involved

    Interested in working with us? Whether you’re a startup, a local authority, or a global tech player — we’re ready to collaborate.

    Universities

    SME

    Large Industry

    Local Government

    Highly Specialised Facilities

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