Small cells will play a central role in enabling 5G networks to meet requirements for increased capacity, coverage, bandwidth, and shorter ranges necessitated by higher frequency spectrum usage. Early 5G trials are already focusing on deploying dense networks of small cells in challenging environments. Widespread adoption of 5G will require an unprecedented scale of small cell deployment that establishes open standards, alternative ownership models, and scalable processes to efficiently densify networks. The Small Cell Forum is working to drive adoption of small cells and help plot an evolutionary path to 5G through its initiatives on technology, operations, business models and standards.