Ericsson Partners with EDC to Propel Canada into Next-Gen Network Leadership with $3 Billion Investment

Ericsson and Export Development Canada: A Landmark Partnership

In an unprecedented move to strengthen Canada's position in the future connectivity landscape, Ericsson has signed a monumental $3 billion partnership agreement with Export Development Canada (EDC). Announced on October 15, 2025, this collaboration aims to significantly bolster investment in Canadian research and development, enhance local supply chains, and accelerate advancements in critical technologies such as 5G, Cloud RAN, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum computing.

Börje Ekholm, the President and CEO of Ericsson, emphasized the strategic importance of Canada, stating, "Canada is one of Ericsson's most significant hubs for global research and development. This partnership will not only amplify our leadership in high-tech innovations but will also enable us to foster collaboration with local businesses and academic institutions. Together, we will spearhead breakthroughs in 5G, quantum, and Cloud RAN technologies, which will be pivotal for economic growth and positioning Canada as a forerunner in next-gen networks."

With a workforce exceeding 3,100 across major cities including Ottawa, Montreal, and Toronto, Ericsson Canada has established itself as a leader in driving industry advancements. The company's research teams are at the forefront of innovations in not only 5G technology but also the emerging realms of 5G Advanced and 6G. This latest partnership enhances their capability, ensuring that Canadian innovations can be showcased globally, thereby strengthening the national economy and tech ecosystem.

Over the three-year term of this partnership, Ericsson plans to leverage EDC’s financial and insurance solutions to bolster its Canadian operations. The collaboration aims to forge stronger connections with local innovators, enabling these companies to scale their offerings on a global scale. As Alison Nankivell, President and CEO of EDC, remarked, "This partnership signifies our commitment to help Canadian expertise penetrate new markets. We are empowering local companies to integrate into global supply chains while advancing technologies that will put Canada on the competitive map."

This agreement builds on a previous commitment by Ericsson, highlighted by a CAD 634.8 million R&D collaboration with the Government of Canada in 2024. Such initiatives reaffirm Ericsson's long-term dedication to fostering innovation and talent development within Canada’s burgeoning tech landscape.

As a cornerstone of Canada’s technological evolution for over 70 years, Ericsson has played a crucial role in aiding communication service providers through every generation of mobile technology. Today, it stands as a pivotal contributor to the national efforts aimed at advancing 5G adoption, embedding itself within the collaborative framework that underpins Canada’s digital infrastructure.

The company also prioritizes sustainability, directing its R&D investments towards solutions that promote network sustainability in tandem with its technical advancements. In partnership with Environment and Climate Change Canada, as well as prominent academic institutions, Ericsson focuses on utilizing AI and other cutting-edge technologies to meet climate action goals effectively.

Ericsson, characterized by its pioneering legacy that spans nearly 150 years, remains steadfast in its vision of creating innovative communication technologies. This partnership with EDC marks a significant chapter in its journey, one that seeks not only to redefine Canada's technological landscape but also to harness local talent for global success.

For more insights, visit Ericsson's website.