Nokia: Building a Canadian R&D Hub for AI, Quantum and 6G

Nokia is beginning the construction of its new innovation campus in Ottawa, which will serve as the centrepiece of its long-term strategy within Canada's communications technology industry.

Nokia is positioning the site as a crucial location for its work on AI-powered network data centre infrastructure and quantum-safe technologies.

This initiative is connected to broader research efforts across Nokia Canada and is aimed at shaping the future of connectivity.

The campus is situated in the Kanata North Tech Park and is planned to cover nearly 69,700 square metres (750,000 square feet). It will support over 1,900 R&D professionals in Ottawa and more than 2,500 staff across Canada.

Nokia frames this development as part of an ongoing programme to align Canadian research, local supply chains and network infrastructure with the evolving requirements of operators, enterprises and public-sector clients.

Advancing AI-powered networks

The investment in Ottawa is directly linked to Nokia’s growing portfolio in AI and network technologies.

Jeffrey Maddox, President of Nokia Canada, connects the project to the increasing importance of artificial intelligence in telecommunications.

“Nokia’s trusted, secure and advanced networks are fuelling the AI supercycle,” Jeffrey says. He explains that the investment will power global infrastructure and fuel breakthroughs that will help define the future of connectivity.

Jeffrey also links the project to national security priorities and Nokia Canada’s involvement in defence-related networking programmes. “As we expand our efforts, we are also deepening our commitment to advancing technologies that bolster Canada’s defence and national security,” he states.

“We’re doubling down on local talent partners and technology to strengthen Nokia Canada’s leadership role in a new era of quantum secure, scalable and resilient connectivity.”

Government and industry collaboration

The new Ottawa campus is being built on the same site where Nokia has previously designed routers, 800G optics and quantum-safe networking solutions for global markets.

This development is presented as a continuation of Nokia's commitment to using Canadian goods, services and engineering talent.

Campus plans incorporate sustainable design measures such as LEED principles, renewable energy systems and low-carbon materials, which could reduce operational risk and assist in long-term cost management.

The project is supported by federal, provincial and municipal partners. Jeffrey reinforces their critical role in enabling the initiative.

“We are especially grateful for the support of the Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario and the City of Ottawa,” he says.

“Their shared vision and investment through initiatives like the Strategic Innovation Fund have been instrumental in making this project a reality and in securing Canada’s leadership in next-generation digital infrastructure.”

This support aligns the campus with national industrial policy objectives in areas like AI and quantum technologies.

Strengthening global digital infrastructure

David Heard, President of Network Infrastructure at Nokia, places the Ottawa expansion in the context of Nokia's global business.

“Nokia is playing a critical role in the AI and quantum era,” David says.

He adds: “By expanding our Ottawa footprint, we’re not just growing – we’re strengthening our commitment to innovation and advancing next-generation networks that will transform how industries and people connect worldwide.”

Nokia will use the campus to concentrate its expertise in IP routing, optical transport and security alongside its research into quantum-safe networking.

The Government of Canada views the Nokia investment as a key part of its broader technology and industrial strategy.

Hon. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, positions the project at the heart of the country's technological ambitions.

“Canada is at the cutting edge of the global technological race,” Mélanie says.

She adds: “The project at Nokia’s Kanata campus ensures Canadians have access to the most advanced digital telecommunications tools.”

Hon. Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, links the campus to Canada’s trade and investment agenda.

Maninder explains: “Today’s groundbreaking ceremony for Nokia’s Ottawa Campus expansion reinforces Canada’s commitment to being a trusted leader in secure and sustainable digital infrastructure around the world. The new campus will advance artificial intelligence, quantum-safe networking and next-generation connectivity to help Canadian businesses compete globally.”