Nokia Canada Backs Ottawa AI and Quantum Campus

Nokia is starting construction of its new Ottawa innovation campus as the centrepiece of its long-term presence in Canada’s communications technology sector.

The company positions the site as a core location for work on AI-powered networks, data centre networks, quantum-safe infrastructure and next-generation 6G technologies, linked to wider research across Nokia Canada.

The campus sits in the Kanata North Tech Park and is planned to cover nearly 750,000 square feet, supporting more than 1,900 R&D professionals in Ottawa and more than 2,500 staff across Canada.

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

Nokia Canada links campus to AI and quantum networks

Jeffrey Maddox, President, Canada, Nokia, connects the Ottawa investment directly to Nokia’s AI and network portfolio.

Jeffrey says: “Nokia’s trusted, secure and advanced networks are driving the AI supercycle.

"Our investment in the new Nokia Ottawa campus and R&D work across the country will power global infrastructure and the breakthroughs that will help shape the future of connectivity.”

Jeffrey links the project to national security priorities and Nokia Canada’s role in defence-related networking programmes.

He says: “As we expand our efforts, we are also deepening our commitment to advancing technologies that bolster Canada’s defence and national security.

"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.”

Nokia Ottawa campus design and Canadian supply chains

The new Nokia Ottawa campus is located on the site where Nokia has already designed routers, 800G optics, data centre technology and quantum-safe networking solutions for global markets.

Nokia positions the development as a continuation of its work on Canadian goods, services and engineering talent, with a focus on local economic impact and export potential.

Campus plans include sustainable design measures such as LEED principles, renewable and resilient energy systems and low-carbon materials.

The elements intend to reduce operational risk and contribute to long-term cost management while meeting emerging regulatory expectations for energy use and emissions in large technology facilities.

Nokia Canada partnerships with governments and Ottawa

Jeffrey reinforces the role of federal, provincial and municipal partners in enabling the project. 

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

"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.”

The Strategic Innovation Fund support aligns with the Nokia Ottawa campus with national industrial policy objectives in areas such as AI, quantum technologies and advanced connectivity.

For Nokia, the backing reduces project risk and links the campus to government-led programmes targeting skills, research collaborations and export development.

Nokia Network Infrastructure focus on next-generation networks

David Heard, President, Network Infrastructure, Nokia, places the Ottawa expansion footprint in the context of Nokia’s global network infrastructure business. 

David says: “Nokia is playing a critical role in the AI and quantum revolution. 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 uses the Ottawa campus to concentrate expertise in IP routing, optical transport, data centre switching and security, alongside research into quantum-safe networking techniques.

The portfolio is aimed at operators, cloud providers and enterprises that are preparing for traffic growth, new latency requirements and regulatory expectations around secure data transport.

Government of Canada perspective on Nokia Kanata project

Hon. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, positions the Nokia investment within Canada’s wider technology and industrial strategy. 

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

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

Mélanie highlights how the project aligns with federal objectives for economic growth and digital infrastructure.

She says: “Today’s milestone is a significant step toward enabling exciting new technologies that will have a transformative effect on Canada’s economy.

"The partnership between Nokia and Canada is strengthening our digital infrastructure and delivering results for Canadians across the country.”

Nokia Canada, AI, quantum and trade policy priorities

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

Maninder says: “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.”

Maninder further highlights the role of international investment and trade support services.

He says: “Canada welcomes foreign investment as a driver of innovation, job creation and economic growth and the Trade Commissioner Service stands ready to help global leaders like Nokia, seize these opportunities and grow in Canada.”