Empowering Canadians to Build, Create, and Thrive

A man leading a business meeting or presentation with five colleagues seated around a table in a conference room. The man points to a diagram on a whiteboard, and the others are listening or taking notes with laptops and tablets. The room has large windows and sticky notes on the walls.

Education that empowers innovation.

Delivered in partnership with the Stronach Academy for Entrepreneurship (SAFE) and other educational partners, this program provides:

  • Online entrepreneurship courses

  • Trade and tool operation certification

  • Financial literacy and business mentorship

  • ESG-aligned curriculum for sustainable practices

Goal: To ensure every GarageShop owner has the knowledge and support to grow a viable, ethical, and environmentally responsible business.

Access Training Programs →

Why Join GarageShops.ca

Joining GarageShops.ca means becoming part of a national network of makers, entrepreneurs, and innovators transforming how Canada works.

As a participant, you’ll gain access to:

  • Retrofit funding to upgrade your garage workspace

  • Subsidized tools and equipment (starting with freeze dryers)

  • Training and mentorship from the Industry leaders

  • A profile in the Makers Connect Network

  • Ongoing program and community support

No business is too small — every GarageShop is part of something bigger.

Eligibility Requirements

GarageShops.ca is open to Canadian residents who:

  • Own or rent a property with a usable garage space

  • Have local zoning compliance (residential or mixed-use)

  • Demonstrate interest in small-scale production, food innovation, or trade skills

  • Commit to safe, sustainable, and community-minded practices

Municipal and regional pilot areas may have additional criteria. Our team will guide you through the details.

Click Here to Begin Your Journey →

How It Works

Transforming Your Garage — Step by Step

Icon of a smartphone displaying a checklist with three items.

Step 1
Apply Online

Complete the form below to tell us about your space and your goals.

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Step 2
Assessment

Our team reviews your application for eligibility and potential program matches.

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Step 3
Retrofit & Planning

If approved, you’ll receive a site assessment, retrofit plan, and funding overview.

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Step 4
Launch Your GarageShop

Once set up, your space is added to the Makers Connect network — ready to produce, collaborate, and grow.

Apply Today

GarageShops.ca is the beginning of a new kind of Canadian economy — one built on creativity, community, and local resilience. Start today and be among the first to launch a certified GarageShop in your region.


After You Apply

You’ll receive an email confirmation within 48 hours. Approved applicants will be contacted by a GarageShops.ca coordinator to schedule a virtual or on-site consultation.

Our team will help:

  • Review funding and retrofit options

  • Connect you to approved contractors

  • Provide access to Makers Connect training and tools


For Municipal or Partner Organizations

Interested in hosting a local GarageShops pilot or supporting applicants? We’re building partnerships with municipalities, trades, training institutions, and local suppliers.

📧 partners@garageshops.ca

Join the Movement — Build the Future from Your Garage

GarageShops.ca helps Canadians turn their garages into small business hubs, creative spaces, and sustainable production studios — with support from government programs, Makers Connect, and local communities.

Contact Us →