NEXTWORKS SRL

Their core work

Nextworks is a Pisa-based technology SME that builds software platforms for advanced telecommunications networks, specializing in 5G/6G infrastructure, network virtualization, and edge computing. They develop SDN controllers, NFV orchestration components, and mobile edge computing (MEC) solutions that enable network slicing, automated service management, and multi-domain connectivity. Their work spans the full telecom stack — from optical transport layers and photonic systems to application-level service platforms for verticals like manufacturing, logistics, and connected vehicles. They are a consistent technology contributor across Europe's flagship 5G research programs.

What they specialise in

How they've shifted over time

In 2015–2018, Nextworks focused on foundational network research — optical architectures (ORCHESTRA, NEPHELE), experimental networking platforms (ARCFIRE, FLAME), and early 5G transport (5G-Crosshaul, 5G-TRANSFORMER). From 2019 onward, the focus shifted decisively toward applied 5G/6G systems with strong emphasis on edge computing, blockchain-based trust and automation, and vertical industry applications (manufacturing, logistics, connected vehicles). The progression shows a clear move from infrastructure research to platform-level solutions serving specific industry domains.

Nextworks is moving toward 6G research (Hexa-X) and AI-powered vertical platforms (knowlEdge), positioning them as a go-to partner for next-generation network services targeting specific industries.

How they like to work

Nextworks operates exclusively as a participant — they have never coordinated an H2020 project, preferring instead to contribute deep technical components within large, multi-partner consortia. With 312 unique partners across 30 countries, they are exceptionally well-networked and clearly valued as a reliable technology provider that integrates smoothly into diverse teams. Their consistent presence across Europe's most prominent 5G/6G flagship projects suggests they are a trusted, repeat contributor that principal investigators actively seek out.

Nextworks has collaborated with 312 unique partners across 30 countries, making them one of the most broadly connected SMEs in European telecom R&D. Their network is pan-European with no strong geographic bias, reflecting the continent-wide nature of 5G infrastructure programs.

What sets them apart

Nextworks combines rare depth in both optical/photonic networking and software-defined 5G platforms — a vertical integration from physical layer to application layer that few SMEs can match. Their 31-project track record (EUR 11.4M in EC funding) makes them one of Italy's most active SME participants in H2020 telecom research. For consortium builders, they offer proven delivery across the entire network stack, a massive partner network, and the agility of an SME without the overhead of a large corporation.

Highlights from their portfolio

• 5G EVE
  Largest single grant (EUR 783K) — contributed to Europe's primary 5G end-to-end validation platform, their most significant funding commitment.
• Hexa-X
  The EU's flagship 6G vision project, signaling Nextworks' position at the frontier of next-generation wireless research.
• 5GCroCo
  Cross-border connected vehicle mobility over 5G — demonstrates Nextworks' expansion from pure telecom into safety-critical automotive applications.