The Government of Canada has finalized an investment of CAD 79.1 million under the Strategic Innovation Fund to support Ericsson's CAD 634.8 million project aimed at advancing 5G technologies for next-generation telecommunications networks.
The project will also involve R&D efforts focused on cloud-based wireless technologies and architectures, as well as artificial intelligence and quantum computing solutions, to meet the needs of customers. This work will be performed at Ericsson's facilities in Ottawa, Ontario, and Saint-Laurent, Quebec.
This public-private partnership is set to generate significant economic benefits for the Ottawa and Montréal regions, stimulate Canada's 5G ecosystem and drive growth in the entire tech sector. The project is expected to create 1,200 co-op student positions and will sustain 2,400 jobs in Canada, primarily in well-paying R&D positions.
"Fast, reliable and effective wireless telecommunications are essential to the modern economy. That is why our government is investing in next-generation technologies through its partnership with Ericsson, a global leader in this field with 71 years of deep roots in Canada. This investment will help secure Canada's position at the forefront of cutting-edge telecommunications development and deployment,” commented Honorable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
Strengthening Canada’s Leadership in Digital Infrastructure
Ericsson’s R&D centers in Montréal and Ottawa will focus on the development of quantum communications and AI-powered network management, while also expanding its Cloud RAN, 5G Advanced, and 6G capabilities. The investment will further support the expansion of research facilities and staffing for quantum computing at Ericsson’s Quantum Research Hub in Montreal and further grow Ericsson’s already strong partnerships with more than 20 Canadian post-secondary institutions.
"Digitalization is an incredible opportunity, and our partnership with the Canadian government—through the Strategic Innovation Fund—will accelerate the advancement of key technologies including 5G, artificial intelligence and quantum computing. This collaboration will not only enhance Canada's leadership in digital infrastructure but also benefit the entire region. By enhancing our R&D efforts in Ottawa and Montréal, we aim to stimulate Canada's 5G ecosystem and contribute to the prosperity of the entire tech sector,” expressed Börje Ekholm, President and CEO of the Ericsson Group.
Ericsson Canada has played a vital role in the country’s innovation ecosystem for over 70 years, supporting communications service providers through every generation of mobile communication.
Yossi Cohen, President and Head of Ericsson North America, added, “The technological advancements being developed here are laying the foundation for new industries and applications, fueling our global business growth. We're eager to continue building a strong partnership, with Ericsson playing a key role in advancing innovation both in Canada and across North America."
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