The Government of Canada is supporting the transformative $340 million project that would expand Nokia’s Ottawa facility and revitalize its laboratories with the goal of further advancing wireless technology research and development in Canada.
The Government of Canada is finalizing plans to provide up to CAD$40 million via its Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), and the Government of Ontario, through Invest Ontario, will provide CAD$30 million to the project. These contributions will support the long-term capability of Nokia, Canada and Ontario in cyber security, R&D and next-gen technology, including 5G and 6G, while delivering high-paying jobs in construction and technology.
“The project we’re announcing will help connect Canadians to the jobs of today and tomorrow. It will bring economic benefits to the National Capital Region and stimulate Canada’s tech ecosystem. This is about building a strong economy and a better future for everyone,” said Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, prime minister of Canada.
This new investment is an important step toward strengthening Canada’s wireless network, paving the way for new opportunities in innovative technology, including areas in clean energy, smart cities, precision agriculture, autonomous vehicles and advanced telemedicine.
Nokia Canada plans to begin site construction in 2023 and expects to open the new facility in 2026. This project will transform Nokia Canada's 26-acre campus at the Kanata North Business Park into a sustainable, accessible mixed-use corporate, residential and commercial hub where nearly 2,160 local employees, Ottawa residents and businesses, and Canada's entire tech ecosystem can collaborate, innovate and drive Canadian and global well-being and prosperity.
Pekka Lundmark, president and CEO of Nokia, commented, "Nokia is helping to drive Canada's tech leadership. This world-class, sustainable R&D hub will be one of Nokia's most dynamic developments…”
“Nokia's R&D hub will generate net-new Canadian IP and bring innovative advanced telecommunications and cyber security technologies to market, helping us achieve our goal of improving people's lives in Canada and across the world,” added Jeffrey Maddox, president of Nokia Canada.
It is anticipated that the next generation of 5G wireless technology will add $40 billion annually to Canada’s economy in the next four years.
