Farm communications startup Zetifi has received $5 million from the Australian Government’s Industry Growth Program to support its $10 million plan to launch its smart antenna platform worldwide.
The regional NSW startup improves data connectivity and communications on remote properties by turning antennas from passive components into active devices. Using RF (radio frequency) engineering, it creates embedded systems with cloud connectivity.
Zetifi’s Smart Antennas work with third-party platforms to enable features like real-time telemetry, remote diagnostics, better mobile coverage using network data, and duress alerts for lone workers.
The project is being carried out with global partners like Nextivity, Icom, and Telstra. They are working with Zetifi to explore and create new uses for the Smart Antenna platform in areas such as public safety, business connectivity, and regional mobility.
Founder and CEO Dan Winson said the $5 million in grant funding was a defining moment for Zetifi.
The support from the Industry Growth Program, alongside our strategic partnerships with Nextivity, Icom, and Telstra, positions our Smart Antenna platform at the forefront of global connectivity innovation,” he said.
“This technology does more than extend coverage – it delivers critical intelligence and enhanced capabilities in environments where it matters most.”
Zetifi is working with Telstra to explore ways of using network data to improve mobile coverage and connectivity in remote and regional areas. This partnership will help Zetifi’s Smart Antennas make smarter, real-time connectivity decisions and provide better performance for people working in the field.
Telstra global head of networks and technology, Shailin Sehgal, said: “Zetifi’s Smart Antenna platform represents the kind of innovative thinking needed to enhance connectivity for vehicles and field equipment. We’re pleased to be working with Zetifi to explore how network data sharing can support smarter, safer, and more connected solutions.”
Nextivity, known for its CEL-FI ROAM and CEL-FI GO cellular boosters, works with Zetifi’s Smart Antennas to enhance connectivity. The antennas use the Bluetooth interface in CEL-FI devices to send real-time location and network status data to the booster, allowing smarter band selection and better system optimisation to deliver signals to hard-to-reach areas.
Nextivity CEO Michiel Lotter said Zetifi has reimagined the antenna.
“The merged system works with both the terrestrial network as well as upcoming satellite-based services, utilising the latest technology to maximize effectiveness,” he said.
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