About INCA

Championing independent networks for a gigabit-connected Britain

INCA is the trade association for the UK’s independent telecoms networks—bringing together operators, suppliers, public sector partners and industry experts to shape the future of digital infrastructure.

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We exist to represent and support the independent network sector (Altnets) in the UK, and to make sure independent networks have a clear, credible voice in policy and regulation—while also creating practical ways for the industry to collaborate, share knowledge, and move faster together.

INCA is a membership trade association, not a supplier—membership is not a commercial services arrangement.

Our story

Who we are

INCA is a co-operative association operating on a one-member-one-vote basis. We were founded by organisations working to support, plan, build, and operate sustainable, independent and interconnected digital networks—because the sector is stronger when it works together.

Independent networks play a vital role in building the UK’s full-fibre future—driving infrastructure competition, unlocking investment, and expanding high-quality connectivity for communities and businesses across the country.

What drives us

Our mission, vision and values

Mission

To unite, complement, and amplify the voices of alternative network providers—championing fair policy, accelerating technology adoption, and enabling partnerships that deliver exceptional connectivity across the UK.

Vision

A UK where independent networks help lead the country towards a more connected and sustainable digital future, supported by healthy infrastructure competition.

Leadership

Anticipating challenges and shaping policy

Collaboration

Building partnerships across the sector

Empowerment

Giving members knowledge and resources

Inclusivity

Pushing for high-quality connectivity everywhere

Integrity

Transparency, fairness, and ethical practice

Our work

What we do

Policy & regulatory engagement

We work with government, regulators and stakeholders to make sure independent networks have the policy conditions and regulatory frameworks they need to compete and scale—so the UK benefits from stronger infrastructure competition and better outcomes.

Member coordination & working groups

INCA brings members together to solve real industry problems through working groups and Special Interest Groups (SIGs)—including areas such as policy & regulation, infrastructure sharing, PIA, standards, and cyber/security.

Events, briefings & practical learning

From Breakfast Briefings and Techshots to SIG meetings and larger events, we create regular moments where members can share lessons, compare approaches, and stay aligned on what’s coming next.

Research, insight & communications

We publish and share insight to help members navigate change—plus updates, briefings and communications that keep the independent networks community informed and connected.

Our community

Who INCA is for

INCA membership brings together organisations across the independent networks ecosystem, including:

Altnet operators

Established and emerging independent network builders

Suppliers & vendors

Service providers enabling network deployment and operation

Public sector

Local authorities and public bodies driving connectivity programmes

Consultants & advisors

Industry experts supporting the independent network sector

If your organisation is contributing to (or enabling) independent digital infrastructure in the UK, INCA exists to help you connect with the community and have a stronger collective voice.

How we work

How we’re governed

INCA is governed through its co-operative model, with a Board elected by (and accountable to) the membership—each member has one vote.

This structure is deliberate: it keeps INCA focused on the shared interests of the independent networks community and supports fair, transparent decision-making.