Updated on 16 July 2026

Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital

The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital is the European Union’s funding programme for the deployment of high-performance digital infrastructure across Europe. Running from 2021 to 2027, CEF Digital supports investments in secure, sustainable and cross-border digital connectivity. The programme aims to strengthen Europe's digital infrastructure, enhance the EU’s competitiveness and contribute to the objectives of the European Digital Decade.

CEF Digital funds projects that expand advanced digital networks and services while delivering clear European added value.

Programme at a glance

Part of: Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) 2021–2027
Duration: 2021–2027
Budget: approximately €2 billion for CEF Digital
Funding authority: European Union / European Commission
Target groups: Companies, SMEs, universities, research organisations, public authorities, telecommunications operators and infrastructure providers
Funding priorities: Gigabit and 5G connectivity, cross-border digital infrastructure, cloud and edge infrastructure, backbone networks, submarine cables and secure digital communication networks

What does CEF Digital fund?

CEF Digital supports projects in areas including:

• Deployment of Gigabit and very high-capacity connectivity networks
• 5G infrastructure along major European transport corridors (5G Corridors)
• 5G and Gigabit connectivity for schools, universities, hospitals and public authorities
• Secure cloud and edge infrastructure
• Cross-border backbone networks and submarine cable infrastructure
• Digital infrastructure supporting the transport, energy and other European data networks
• Secure digital communication infrastructure, including the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) 

Budget

For the 2021–2027 programming period, CEF Digital provides around €2 billion to support the deployment of strategic digital infrastructure across Europe. The European Commission regularly publishes calls for proposals covering the programme's different priority areas.

Who can apply?

Depending on the specific call for proposals, eligible applicants may include:

• Companies  
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Universities and higher education institutions
• Research organisations
• Public authorities
• Infrastructure operators 

Eligibility criteria and funding rates vary depending on the individual call.

Benefits for SMEs

CEF Digital strengthens Europe's digital infrastructure while creating new opportunities for businesses. In addition, selected calls enable small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate directly in European digital infrastructure projects, for example in the fields of 5G, cloud and edge technologies, or digital connectivity.

BayFOR support

BayFOR supports companies, universities, research organisations and public authorities in identifying suitable CEF Digital funding opportunities. Our experts assist applicants in building international project consortia and provide strategic guidance throughout the preparation and submission of competitive EU funding proposals.