Closed
Last Update: March 3, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : June 11, 2020
- Closing date : February 25, 2026
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
The program helps small independent businesses and artists in Ontario build and launch an online store. It includes online store setup, training, marketing support, and a free 90-day Shopify trial.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop a new product or service
- Develop an online presence
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : June 11, 2020
- Closing date : February 25, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Retail trade
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
- Accommodation and food services
- Other services (except public administration)
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Sole proprietorship
- Public or Parapublic institution
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Culture and Arts
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Business Associations
Target groups
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- Artists / creatives
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- Local
- Provincial
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Creating and configuring an online store.
- Training businesses on store management.
- Launching the online store.
- Marketing the store online.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Small independent businesses in Ontario.
- Registered non-profit organizations in Ontario.
- Artists in Ontario.
Who is not eligible
- Corporate chains and franchises.
Eligible expenses
- Online store setup and configuration support.
- Store launch and marketing support.
- Training in digital marketing, shipping, and inventory management.
- Free 90-day Shopify trial and free .CA domain registration.
- Advertising credits, including $100 for Facebook and Google.
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario
Selection criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant.
- Registered business or non-profit organization
- Commercial location or home-based
- Less than 10 employees (25 if a restaurant/bar)
- Not a corporate chain or franchise
- Must be an artist
How to apply
1
Sign Up
- Visit the ShopHERE program page on Digital Main Street's website.
- Click on the "SIGN UP" button to access the application portal.
2
Fill Out Application Form
- Provide detailed information about your business or artistic practice.
- Ensure all fields are completed accurately to reflect your eligibility.
3
Submit Application
- Review your application to ensure all provided information is correct.
- Submit the application through the portal.
4
Await Approval
- Wait for confirmation of your application's approval from the ShopHERE team.
- Check your email for any communication regarding your application status.
5
Begin Program Participation
- Once approved, begin the onboarding process with a dedicated e-Commerce Coordinator.
- Participate in online store development, review, launch, and marketing training sessions.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed through an approval process before participation begins.
- Approved participants move into online store development, review, and launch.
- Marketing training and support follow the store launch.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Digital Main Street – ShopHere Program
What is the Digital Main Street – ShopHere?
The program helps small independent businesses and artists in Ontario build and launch an online store. It includes online store setup, training, marketing support, and a free 90-day Shopify trial.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for this grant program was February 25, 2026.
Who is eligible for the Digital Main Street – ShopHere program?
To be eligible for the Digital Main Street – ShopHere program, you must:
Registered in Ontario.
Fewer than 10 employees.
Business, non-profit, or artist.
What expenses are eligible under Digital Main Street – ShopHere?
Creating and configuring an online store.
Training businesses on store management.
Launching the online store.
Marketing the store online.
Who can I contact for more information about the Digital Main Street – ShopHere?
You can contact Digital Main Street (DMS).
Where is the Digital Main Street – ShopHere available?
The Digital Main Street – ShopHere program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Digital Main Street – ShopHere a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Digital Main Street – ShopHere is a Expert Advice