An initiative has been taken up by Bell Canada under the Bell AI Fabric program to launch AI data centres in British Columbia. The first location will be in Kamloops, launching on June 20, 2025, and the second location will be Merritt, also planned for 2025.
According to Trade.gov, there are more than 670 AI startups and 30 generative AI companies in Canada, showing that AI is thriving in the country, which has invested heavily to support AI and digital research.
After launching the first two locations, Bell AI Fabric has ambitions to establish four more AI data centres, two more in Kamloops, and the remaining locations are yet to be announced.
The President and CEO of Bell Canada expressed his desire for this project to become “the fabric for the AI economy of Canada.”
British Columbia has the necessary infrastructure, including access to hydroelectric power, and is home to world-class universities that are excited to collaborate in the development of AI and contribute to economic growth. One of these institutions, Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, is expected to host one of the data centres specifically focused on training.
The province is a great choice thanks to its natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and high quality of life. Combining urban convenience with outdoor adventure, British Columbia stands out. With its commitment to innovation, access to reliable clean energy, and a favourable climate, it’s clear why Kamloops was chosen for three data centres.
Kamloops, known for its economic vitality, educational excellence, and natural beauty, is a fantastic place to live and work. The initiative to build these data centres is expected to bring employment opportunities, as Bell plans to hire local talent for the construction and management of the centres.
The arrival of cutting-edge technology in Merritt has also been received positively. The city’s mayor, Michael Goetz, expressed enthusiasm about this development.
Kamloops, a welcoming community that blends natural beauty with economic opportunity, has a diverse economy with strong sectors like healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. The addition of an AI data centre is ideal, as it contributes to the city’s dynamic ecosystem. The city’s readiness, including the availability of land for the facility, reflects the strategic vision of local leadership. Kudos to the mayor and his team for focusing on infrastructure preparedness.
In addition to British Columbia, Ontario, Manitoba, and Quebec are expected to benefit from the expansion of Bell’s AI Fabric into their communities. These efforts align well with Canada’s aim to position itself as a global leader in AI.
Strategic Intent and Sovereignty
Bell had been working on this project long before the current U.S. administration took office. It is not a response to tariffs or any external policies but a strategic effort to strengthen AI infrastructure within Canada. Canada has long been an early adopter of AI technologies, recognizing their importance for development and maintaining global relevance.
Key issues such as data storage location, infrastructure, control, and ownership are critical for data sovereignty. Bell’s AI Fabric appears to take these issues seriously, helping ensure data security in case of geopolitical or economic tensions outside Canada. Citizens’ privacy and national security are better protected with local data centres, and the financial gains remain within the country through job creation and local spending.
Additionally, data centres adhering to green standards align with community sustainability goals.
Benefits Across Sectors
The AI Fabric will benefit universities, businesses of all sizes, and public institutions. There’s no doubt that AI is being taken seriously due to its practical benefits in both the public and private sectors. In government, AI can improve public service delivery, data analysis for decision-making, and communication with citizens.
In the private sector, AI-powered tools like chatbots, SEO optimization, and social media automation are helping smaller companies compete with larger brands.
An American AI company is expected to set up operations in Kamloops, focusing on language processing unit chips. Local investments in such technologies allow communities to solve big problems while simultaneously learning and adapting to cutting-edge innovations.
Bell is undergoing a strategic reset to invest more deeply in AI technologies and solutions. Globally, communities and nations are recognizing that AI research and implementation can boost economic output and contribute significantly to local and national GDP.