Nokia Holds Groundbreaking for New HQ at HELIX, New Brunswick 

By Jim Pytell, Managing Editor On Sep 4, 2025

While construction is already underway in New Brunswick on the future 370,000-square-foot home of Nokia Bell Labs, a groundbreaking ceremony was held today at the site – situated directly across from the New Brunswick Train Station – officially commemorating the project.

The historic R&D company credited with the development of the transistor, laser and other significant technological breakthroughs, will be relocating its headquarters from Murray Hill to the new site, occupying the entire second phase of the New Jersey Health + Life Science Exchange (HELIX). The 10-story building will be one of the most advanced electronics labs in North America.

Nokia is expected to relocate approximately 1,000 employees from its Murray Hill campus – which it has called home for more than 80 years – to the new building, set to be completed by 2028.

The move further cements New Jersey as a nexus of innovation, as the new headquarters will be one of 10 research and development facilities that Nokia has around the world, but the only one located in North America. In fact, Nokia reportedly looked at 25 locations across the country before choosing New Brunswick as the site of its new headquarters.

“Nokia is building upon its remarkable legacy in the Garden State, a legacy that will continue to produce cutting-edge technologies and contribute to our burgeoning innovation ecosystem,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “What’s more, Nokia’s presence in New Brunswick’s growing tech hub will generate good-paying jobs and further solidify the city’s standing as a regional leader in the innovation economy.”

“Nokia Bell Labs’ commitment to New Brunswick as the home for its new research and development facility speaks volumes about the potential and promise our city holds,” added New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill. “It is a testament to the collaborative spirit, innovation, and forward-thinking attitude that defines our community.”

The new facility is being developed by SJP Properties with community support provided by New Brunswick Development Corporation (DEVCO), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), and the City of New Brunswick. Additionally, in March, the state cleared the project for $103 million in Aspire tax credits.

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