In November 2021, Council Regulation 2021/2085 established the SNS JU as a legal and funding entity, one of the European Partnerships to step up the green and digital transition. This Partnerhsip is jointly led by the EC and the 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA). The 6G-IA is the voice of European Industry and Research for next generation networks and services. The 6G-IA brings together a global industry community of telecoms & digital actors, such as operators, manufacturers, research institutes, universities, verticals, SMEs and ICT associations.

The SNS JU enables pooling EU and industry resources into Smart Networks and Services. It also fosters alignment with Member States on 6G Research and Innovation and deployment of advanced 5G networks. The SNS JU sets out an ambitious mission with an EU budget of EUR 900 million for the period 2021-2027. The private sector will contribute with at least equal resources (i.e., EUR 900 million) to the SNS JU activities.

The States Representatives Group (SRG) is an essential part of the SNS JU governance. The SRG provides guidance on all strategic matters, as well as all relevant activities of the partnership. In particular, it provides guidance on R&I under Horizon Europe and on deployment activities under CEF2 Digital or other EU programmes. It is composed of representatives from Member States and Associated Countries.

The first SNS call for proposals under Horizon Europe was published on 18 January 2022 and closed on 26 April 2022. The opening of the second SNS call for proposals is planned for January 2023.