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Friday, March 29th, 2024

R2 Network Challenge funds awarded

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First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) officials recently joined a trio of agencies in presenting Accelerate R2 Network (R2 Network) Challenge awards.

The initiative serves as an interagency program connecting stakeholder response and resilience. The Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) play key roles in the endeavor.

The R2 Network Challenge is a $2 million total effort, officials said, with funding contributions of $750,000 from EDA, $250,000 from the NIST Public Safety Communications Research Division, programmatic support from the FirstNet Authority, and a $1 million match commitment from the public-private partnership.

“Never has the need to protect those who protect us been more prevalent. We are very proud to be part of this collaboration with EDA, NIST, and the awardees of the R2 Network Challenge,” Edward Parkinson, CEO of the FirstNet Authority, said. “This program highlights the federal government’s unique ability to lead in innovation for the public good by bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders and drive innovation for our first responders. The FirstNet Authority’s ability to foster these types of ecosystem programs are key to FirstNet’s success.”

RapidSOS, ResponderCorp, Orleans Parish Communication District, and the Western Fire Chiefs Association were selected to establish and operate the R2 Network that is made up of entrepreneurs, early-stage investors, local government, and public safety stakeholders.

The State of New Hampshire would serve as a strategic partner and collaborator in the implementation process.