Commercializing 5G CBRS Neutral Host Solutions for Enhancing Research and Education Campus Connectivity
The client, a member organization of top research and education institutions, needed to select and commercialize 5G Neutral Host Network solutions for campus deployments. They sought technology vendors with CBRS-based solutions to enhance cellular coverage and deploy private LTE/5G networks for research, secure education access, and mission-critical campus operations like facility management and public safety.The client also required guidance in educating university IT executives on the benefits of CBRS and needed support in conducting technical trials to demonstrate capabilities and encourage adoption. Finally, they needed a streamlined RFP process to select the best technology provider based on the trial results and the diverse needs of their member institutions.
Viventum was engaged to advise the CEO and a multi-stakeholder team comprised of university IT and Network Technology executives in the strategic selection and commercialization of 5G CBRS (Citizen’s Broadband Radio Service) Neutral Host Network solutions for university and research deployments. Viventum conducted briefings and primers on CBRS and neutral host network technologies to educate university IT executives, while also identifying and introducing leading technology providers and U.S. mobile network operators to the client and its members. As the program manager and subject matter expert, Viventum coordinated with 5G CBRS technology vendors and U.S. mobile network operators to ensure smooth trials and align the client’s objectives with technology solutions.
Viventum led the client through the end-to-end commercialization process by organizing meetings between the client and potential technology vendors, ensuring that solutions aligned with university research and educational needs. As the program manager, Viventum oversaw neutral host network trials on university campuses, providing technical and business model expertise. Additionally, Viventum led and supported the client in developing a streamlined RFP process, advising on business models, pricing analyses, and technical evaluation criteria to select the most suitable technology providers with solutions that delivered 5G coverage from the major U.S. mobile network operators for their member institutions’ campuses.
Viventum’s guidance resulted in successful CBRS technical trials, demonstrating the viability of neutral host networks for improving cellular coverage and private LTE/5G deployments in universities. The educational sessions on CBRS and neutral host networks elevated stakeholder understanding and accelerated adoption across member institutions. With Viventum’s leadership, the client not only commercialized its 5G CBRS Neutral Host solutions but also established a structured RFP process that empowered them to select technology and solution providers aligned with their long-term goals.