The University College of the North (UCN) recently opened the North Forge North Fabrication Lab (Fab Lab) in Thompson through a partnership with North Forge and several community partners.

The North Forge North Fab Lab is a fabrication facility that supports individuals in Thompson and surrounding communities who want to develop a business, create new products, or turn ideas into prototypes. The facility opened to the public in autumn 2022.

The Fab Lab strengthens UCN’s role in supporting education, skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship across northern Manitoba. Through partnerships with regional organizations, the facility helps community members build knowledge, develop practical skills, and explore new business opportunities.

The Fab Lab provides a collaborative space where people can design, prototype, and create using advanced manufacturing equipment. Available technology includes 3-D printers, a CNC router, laser engravers, welding equipment, and a variety of power and hand tools. In addition to access to equipment, users benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities, and connections with entrepreneurs and industry experts.

The project demonstrates the value of collaboration among educational institutions, government, industry, and community organizations. By working together, partners have created a shared resource that supports innovation, economic development, and entrepreneurship throughout northern Manitoba.

The North Forge North Fab Lab was established through a partnership between North Forge Technology Exchange, Prairies Economic Development Canada, the City of Thompson, the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, the Community Economic Development Fund, the Province of Manitoba, and the University College of the North.

The partnership continues to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem in northern Manitoba by providing access to technology, expertise, and opportunities that help innovators transform ideas into successful businesses.

University College of the North provides learning opportunities to northern communities while respecting diverse Indigenous and northern values.