Many small businesses in Ontario still struggle to sell online. Cost, time, and a lack of technical skills are the biggest barriers. The Digital Main Street – ShopHERE program was created to address these challenges. It gives eligible businesses free, hands-on support to launch an online store. This helps them get started quickly and confidently.
ShopHERE is a provincial program run by Digital Main Street (DMS). It helps small businesses and artists in Ontario set up a professional e‑commerce website in just days.
ShopHERE is different from a traditional grant. It does not provide cash funding. Instead, it covers the cost of expert support and digital tools. According to Digital Main Street, these services can be expensive for small businesses to arrange independently.
With ShopHERE, you receive:
This makes ShopHERE one of the fastest ways for a small Ontario business to start selling online. There is no need for a large upfront investment. Many businesses can get started even if they have limited technical skills.
The eligibility rules are clear and designed for very small businesses.
Your business must meet these requirements:
Artists can also qualify if they are based in Ontario and sell their own work.
If you meet these criteria, ShopHERE is usually one of the easiest Digital Main Street programs to access. Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly check if your business qualifies and find related programs by province and industry.
The ShopHERE process is practical and fast. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Apply through Digital Main Street
You submit basic business information through the Digital Main Street portal.
Step 2: Get matched with an e‑Commerce Coordinator
If approved, you are paired with a trained coordinator. They work directly with you to get started.
Step 3: Build your online store
Your coordinator helps you:
Step 4: Go live in days, not months
Many businesses are online within days. The timeline depends on how ready your content and products are.
Many business owners wonder about this.
ShopHERE is not a cash grant. You do not receive money in your bank account. Instead, the program pays for:
Since the support is non-cash, it usually does not create taxable grant income for your business. This is different from most funding programs.
Assuming you are too small to qualify
Home-based businesses and solo operators are eligible, as long as you are registered in Ontario.
Waiting until your products are “perfect”
ShopHERE works best when you are ready to launch quickly. You can always improve your store after going live.
Thinking it covers all digital costs forever
ShopHERE helps you get online, but ongoing platform fees or marketing costs may still apply after setup.
Missing other Digital Main Street programs
ShopHERE is only one part of Digital Main Street. Some businesses qualify for extra assessments or future digital support.
Q: How long does it take to get an online store through ShopHERE?
Most businesses can get online in a matter of days once matched with a coordinator. Timing depends on how quickly you provide product details and content.
Q: Can home-based businesses apply for ShopHERE?
Yes. Both commercial storefronts and home-based businesses are eligible as long as they are registered in Ontario.
Q: Are restaurants and bars eligible for ShopHERE?
Yes. Restaurants and bars can apply and are allowed up to 25 employees, which is higher than the standard limit.
Q: Is there any cost to participate in ShopHERE?
No. The core support and training are provided at no cost to eligible businesses.
Q: Do I pay tax on ShopHERE support?
Because ShopHERE provides services rather than cash, it usually does not count as taxable grant income. Always confirm with your accountant for your specific situation.
ShopHERE is often the easiest entry point into government-supported digital growth for Ontario businesses. If getting online is your priority, it’s a strong first step.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and support programs across Canada, including Digital Main Street initiatives. Use GrantHub to check your eligibility and discover more programs that match your business profile.
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