Microsoft shuts down The Garage innovation hub after 17 years

Microsoft is officially winding down The Garage, its grassroots innovation lab, maker space program, and hackathon organizer, ending a 17-year run across 15 global regions. Access to certain physical Garage facilities was scheduled for restriction as early as October 23, 2026. The closure comes as Microsoft shifts its operational focus toward massive artificial intelligence infrastructure investments while cutting corporate overhead and real estate expenses. Over its lifespan, the initiative incubated notable tools such as Microsoft Launcher, CodeFlow, and Mouse Without Borders.