5G connectivity in Costa Rica: Testbed 5G

Recent advances in 5G technology encourage the development of testbeds to explore use cases and improve digital infrastructure. Testbeds serve as experimental platforms where academia, industry and government collaborate to test new technologies, applications and services prior to large-scale deployment.

In Costa Rica, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and specialised artisanal businesses face barriers to 5G adoption due to budgetary and technical knowledge constraints. To facilitate this connection the project proposes a 5G testbed, aimed at bridging the knowledge gap and offering tailor-made solutions for smaller businesses.

Through practical experience and innovation, this initiative aims to democratise access to 5G for MSMEs to realise its full potential and remain competitive in an increasingly interconnected landscape.

This testbed will play an important role in understanding the potential and challenges of new network technologies, facilitating early testing of network performance, device compatibility and application scenarios in various production sectors.

The project is directly linked to Costa Rica's international cooperation policy, specifically in the development axis ‘Competitiveness and Innovation; in the area of Science and Technology’; and in the demand for scientific and technological infrastructure. It is also in accordance with the Law for the Promotion of Scientific and Technological Development and with the National Development Plan (PND), as regards the science, technology, innovation and telecommunications sector.

Project objectives

Support the Administration in strengthening MSMEs and SMEs

Strengthen its research, productive and competitive capacities with the establishment of the 5G/6G Testbed that promotes sustainable development, connectivity and digital inclusion.

Supporting 5G/6G Testbed Implementation

For research, productive and competitive development of MSMEs and SMEs to promote sustainable development in Costa Rica.

Supporting Testbed functionality in Costa Rica

Through the acquisition and installation of the necessary software to achieve operability in the equipment previously acquired and installed by the MICITT, in conjunction with the Promotora and INDER.

Support in defining Testbed governance indoors and outdoors.

The objective is to strengthen institutional capacities for its implementation.

Develop a communication plan for the launch of the 5G/6G Testbed.

Develop a communication plan, increase the use of Testbed and publicise its results.

Contribución del proyecto a los ODS