Originally published in 2020. Updated July 2025 for context.
At North Forge, innovation is more than just a buzzword, it’s a hands-on process. And for over nine years, Princess Auto has played a vital role in powering that process through their ongoing sponsorship of the Princess Auto Tool Room at the North Forge FabLab™.
A Legacy of Support for Makers and Founders
Princess Auto Ltd., a proudly Canadian retail chain specializing in tools, equipment, and industrial supplies, has long been known for its deep roots in the maker and builder community. Headquartered in Winnipeg, the company has gone beyond retail to directly support grassroots innovation through their commitment to North Forge and its members.
“Our customers come into our stores to problem-solve and dream about what they can build,” said Noel Ablao, Category Leader, Truck & Trailer at Princess Auto. “When we bring our team members to Winnipeg for training, we like to visit North Forge to inspire creativity and imagination. The Princess Auto Tool Room gives us a great hands-on testing environment with their members. We receive tool and equipment feedback and, at the same time, give back to the startup and entrepreneurial community.”
Tools for Innovation, Built by Community
Located within the North Forge FabLab, the Princess Auto Tool Room provides members with access to a wide range of hand tools, power tools, and materials needed to prototype, refine, and build. For early-stage product developers, this means they can move quickly from idea to working prototype without the cost of purchasing individual equipment.
“Nothing is more frustrating than being mid-project only to realize you don’t have the right tools to complete it,” said Jordynn Friesen, the volunteer member who maintains the tool room. “That doesn’t happen at North Forge.”
The ability to access high-quality equipment helps FabLab members stretch their creativity and increase the quality of their projects — whether they’re working on hardware products, woodworking, or early-stage production runs.
From Sponsorship to Collaboration
More than a donation, this partnership has become a dynamic collaboration. Princess Auto benefits from direct feedback on the use of their tools in real-world applications, while members benefit from equipment they wouldn’t otherwise have access to.
“Having the Princess Auto Tool Room helps members broaden their horizons in ways we didn’t think possible,” said Friesen. “It simplifies the creation process and supports founders at all levels.”
By supporting the FabLab, Princess Auto is investing in the very spirit of Canadian innovation, one tool, one project, and one builder at a time.
Build With Us
Thinking about turning your product idea into reality? Join the North Forge FabLab and get access to the tools, equipment, and community you need to make it happen.
