Nokia: How New Canada Campus Will Drive AI and Quantum R&D

Nokia has commenced construction on its innovation campus in Ottawa, which will serve as a centrepiece for its long-term strategy within Canada.

The company has said it plans for the site to be a primary location for developing AI-powered network data centre networks and quantum-safe infrastructure alongside work on next-generation 6G technologies.

Located in the Kanata North Tech Park, the campus is expected to span nearly 69,700 square metres (750,000 square feet).

This facility will accommodate over 1,900 research and development professionals in Ottawa and contribute to a total workforce of more than 2,500 employees across Canada.

AI and network security priorities

"Nokia’s trusted, secure and advanced networks are powering the AI supercycle," explains Jeffrey Maddox, President of Nokia Canada.

"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 also links the project to national security goals 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 says. "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.”

Sustainable design and local supply chains

The new campus is being built on the same site where Nokia has previously developed routers, 800G optics data centre technology and quantum-safe networking solutions for global distribution.

Nokia presents this development as a continuation of its commitment to using Canadian goods, services and engineering talent with an emphasis on local economic benefit and export potential.

The plans for the campus incorporate sustainable design features such as LEED principles, the use of renewable and resilient energy systems and construction with low-carbon materials.

These elements are intended to reduce operational risk and assist with long-term cost management while also meeting new regulatory requirements for energy consumption and emissions in large technology facilities.

Government and industry collaboration

The project has been made possible through collaboration with federal, provincial and municipal partners.

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

He adds: "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.”

Support from the Strategic Innovation Fund aligns the Nokia Ottawa campus with national industrial policy objectives in fields like AI, quantum technologies and advanced connectivity.

For Nokia, this backing could reduce project risk and connect the campus to government-led initiatives focused on skills development, research collaborations and export growth.

“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,” says David Heard, President of Network Infrastructure at Nokia.

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

“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,” says Mélanie.

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

“Today’s ceremony to mark the start of construction 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 AI quantum-safe networking and next-generation connectivity to help Canadian businesses compete globally.”