Ericsson Invests $456M for Quantum, Tech Research in Canada

Ericsson and the government of Canada have expanded their partnership with a substantial funding increase, with Ericsson committing $456 million to research facilities in Ottawa and Montreal.

This investment aims to accelerate advancements in AI, quantum technologies, 5G Advanced, 6G, Cloud RAN and network API technologies while creating and upskilling jobs and internships.

“Our partnership with Ericsson solidifies Canada’s position as a leader in next-generation networks,” said Canada’s minister of innovation, science and industry François-Philippe Champagne.

“With the increased investment, we’ll not only support the 5G networks of today, but also advance the technologies that will shape our future and continue to make Canada a leader in these areas.”

Ericsson's Canadian research and development facilities have a key role in the company’s global innovation strategy, particularly in quantum and AI-driven network management.

The Montreal center will lead quantum computing research through Ericsson's Quantum Research Hub, while both sites expand capabilities in 5G Advanced, Cloud RAN and 6G technologies. This initiative also strengthens Ericsson’s partnerships with more than 20 Canadian universities, fostering talent through nearly 600 co-op positions over five years.

Related:Ericsson Demonstrates Indoor 5G Drone in Smart Factory

“Our vision is to leverage open, mobile connectivity to drive positive impact for enterprises and society, accelerate digital transformation and support a low-carbon future and this investment will address all these areas,” said Ericsson president and CEO Börje Ekholm.

“Our partnership strengthens Canada’s leadership in next-generation communications, and we are proud to play a key role in shaping that future.”

The announcement underscores Ericsson’s commitment to technological innovation in Canada. In 2024, the company announced a new 10-year agreement with Concordia University to advance research and talent development in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and launched the Ericsson-Carleton 5G Drone Lab.

“Today, we reinforce our unwavering commitment to innovation in Canada,” said Ericsson Canada president Jeanette Irekvist.

“Our Ottawa and Montreal R&D centers are driving the future of connectivity, and this partnership with the Government of Canada will allow us to accelerate even more groundbreaking work.”

Ericsson is also collaborating with Canada on sustainability goals, including a partnership with École de Technologie Supérieure and other institutions to explore AI-driven energy efficiency in 5G networks.

Related:Universities in Korea, Germany Install Quantum Computers