AI Future: Nokia's Ottawa Campus Backs Data Centres

Nokia has started construction on its new innovation campus in Ottawa, with a clear focus on data centre networking, AI and quantum-safe connectivity.

Located in Kanata North Technology Park, the new site forms part of Nokia Canada's strategy to support next-generation network infrastructure with direct support from federal and provincial governments.

The company links the development to national priorities around secure networks and digital competitiveness. The campus acts as a foundation for Nokia’s AI-powered data centre and networking portfolio and expands its Canadian presence with a workforce that includes more than 1,900 research and development (R&D) professionals in Ottawa and over 2,500 staff across the country.

Nokia describes the facility as a central location for quantum-safe network research, optical transport development and data centre innovation.

Core technologies tied to data centre infrastructure

Nokia Canada confirms the campus will strengthen capabilities in optical transport, IP routing and data centre switching, supporting its global network infrastructure business. 

The site focuses on building quantum-secure and scalable systems to support public and private sector organisations preparing for new latency demands and secure data transport.

David Heard, President, Network Infrastructure, Nokia, 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."

The location also houses projects developing 800G optical networking technologies and advanced router design for global markets. 

These technologies play a central role in modern data centres that support large-scale, low-latency applications and AI training workloads.

Campus activities build on work already carried out at the site in network equipment, quantum-safe technologies and sustainable energy solutions that support long-term data centre cost management and environmental compliance. 

Nokia says it applies sustainable design measures in line with LEED principles (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), low-carbon building materials and resilient renewable energy systems.

Government collaboration and research alignment

Nokia Canada frames the Ottawa site as part of a broader programme linking its R&D with national priorities, supply chain resilience and local partnerships. 

These include projects tied to AI development, quantum research and defence-related communications infrastructure.

Jeffrey Maddox, President, Canada, Nokia, 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."

He adds that the campus reflects a strategic focus on local engineering, supply chain capacity and national security. 

"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."

Support from the Government of Canada arrives through the Strategic Innovation Fund, which targets industrial growth in advanced technologies. 

The programme backs initiatives in quantum computing, AI and digital infrastructure and helps reduce risk for large-scale research and development investments.

Jeffrey adds: "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."

AI networks, trade and global competitiveness

Federal ministers describe the Ottawa campus as central to Canada’s digital competitiveness. 

Hon. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, 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."

She also connects the project to national economic goals: "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."

Hon. Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, reinforces the international role of the campus, especially around AI and quantum network technologies.

He 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."

Maninder adds that Canada welcomes technology investment as a way to support local enterprise and national export goals. "The new campus will advance artificial intelligence, quantum-safe networking and next-generation connectivity to help Canadian businesses compete globally. 

“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."

The Ottawa campus marks a clear strategic alignment between Nokia’s global network infrastructure portfolio and Canada’s national goals for advanced digital systems, secure data centre operations and the future of AI.