The multiplex will serve most of the UK with up to 10 digital stations and is expected to launch in 2008.
National Grid Wireless operates nine of the 11 national radio networks and has invested in a number of trials looking at the future of digital radio in the UK.
The company said it would provide a ‘neutral host' role to the radio industry, similar to the infrastructure support it provides for digital TV with Freeview, in which it is a shareholder along with the BBC and BSkyB.
Tony Moretta, general manager, broadcast, at National Grid Wireless said: "The decision to bid for this licence is based on extensive consultation with the radio industry and we are confident that we can provide an open, non-competitive platform that will enable digital radio to achieve the next stage in its development."
Ofcom will advertise the multiplex later this month.
National Grid Wireless to bid for digital radio multiplex
National Grid Wireless, the group which developed the BBC's DAB network, is to bid against Channel 4 for the second national digital radio multiplex licence.
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