NSF Selects 49 Teams for Wireless VINES Program

The National Science Foundation is distributing $110 million to advance wireless technologies across two research tracks.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Quantum Computing

Isometric editorial illustration of a dense fiber-optic cable array emerging from a minimalist server unit, representing advanced wireless research. — The National Science Foundation has awarded $110 million to 49 research teams to advance secure, next-generation wireless telecommunications technologies in the U.S. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The National Science Foundation has selected 49 research teams to participate in the VINES wireless program. These teams will receive a combined $110 million in funding to develop secure wireless networks capable of supporting next-generation industries.

Why it matters

The program aims to bolster U.S. leadership in telecommunications to accommodate rapid growth in sectors like quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Secure, high-performance wireless systems are considered foundational requirements for the expansion of space exploration and advanced computing technologies.

The VINES program supports 49 teams through two funding tracks: fundamental research and the integration of mature technologies into emerging industries. Teams are required to pair networking specialists with sector experts and validate solutions in real-world environments.

The players

National Science Foundation

This independent federal agency supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering.

Intel

This multinational corporation is a leading manufacturer of semiconductor chips and microprocessor components.

Qualcomm

This technology company creates semiconductors, software, and services related to wireless technology and mobile communications.

Ericsson

This Swedish networking and telecommunications company provides infrastructure for mobile networks globally.

Department of Defense

This cabinet-level executive department is responsible for coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government concerned directly with national security.

The details

Track 2 participants are specifically tasked with building solutions for identified industries and presenting detailed commercialization plans. The program involves a coalition of partners including Intel, Qualcomm, Ericsson, and the Department of Defense to ensure the viability of these advanced systems.

October 16, 2026: The NSF officially announced the 49 program awardees.

The Tech Race

This program aligns with broader efforts to secure critical infrastructure as the U.S. competes to dominate emerging digital markets. By pairing research with commercialization, the NSF aims to close the gap between experimental telecommunications breakthroughs and their eventual mass-market deployment.

While the program targets industrial infrastructure, the long-term impact for consumers includes faster and more reliable connectivity for AI-enabled devices. These research efforts are expected to improve the underlying network security that protects personal data on modern wireless hardware.

The takeaway

These investments represent a critical step toward future-proofing domestic infrastructure against the demands of emerging technology. Readers should monitor these developments as they indicate which communication standards will likely power upcoming high-tech consumer applications.