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Frequently Asked Questions

Green Iglu Overview

What is Green Iglu in a nutshell?

Green Iglu started off as a non-profit organization developed at Ryerson University in 2015. As of 2019, Green Iglu has become a registered charity. Green Iglu travels across Canada to build greenhouse infrastructure, set up high-tech and/or simple growing systems, and provide education programming to help remote communities become food sovereign.

What is the difference between food security and food sovereignty?

Food security is being secure with the amount of produce that your community is consuming, meaning the existing supply chain can sustain the demand for produce. Food sovereignty is putting food in the hands of the people, shifting from supplying communities with food from external sources to producing food locally within each community.

Who are Green Iglu customers?

Green Iglu mainly works with remote communities all across Canada. Green Iglu works closely with the community to find out what their needs are with their food sovereignty project, and if there are neighbouring health centres or schools that could benefit from the greenhouse infrastructure. Green Iglu also partners with organizations that are looking to grow food locally.

What communities do you work with?

As of 2021, Green Iglu has set up greenhouses as far north as Naujaat, Nunavut, as far south as Listuguj, Quebec, as far west as Lax Kw’alaams, British Columbia, and as far east as Port Hope Simpson, Labrador. In 2022, Green Iglu has projects lined up in the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Manitoba. All of these communities are either semi-remote or completely remote and are looking to strengthen food sovereignty in their areas.

Do you operate outside of Canada?

Currently, we are focusing on growing in Canada to help meet our mission. However, we are always happy to collaborate on food security projects, so please contact us to see how we can help and work together for food security across the globe.

How many Growing Domes have you built?

As of 2025, Green Iglu has built 12 Growing Dome® greenhouses in 11 different communities. By the end of 2025, Green Iglu will have set up a total of 14 greenhouses (including Planta Greenhouses) in 11 different communities. Check out our social media accounts to learn what is happening at each of these greenhouses!

What is a multi-purpose Green Oasis?

A “multi-purpose Green Oasis” refers to our projects at Green Iglu, which are greenhouse structures designed for multiple purposes. For instance, some include hydroponic and soil bed systems that have simplified setups to cater to the different needs of each community. Others have space for a classroom, or use the space to connect with nature as a form of healing. The idea is to build a space to serve as a tool for the community to achieve their own vision of food sovereignty.

Greenhouse Infrastructure

Is Green Iglu just a greenhouse?

Green Iglu offers multiple different greenhouse size options to accommodate community needs. We provide training and educational materials to ensure community members are comfortable running their growing systems. Growing methods range from higher-tech vertical hydroponic system towers, which maximize the amount of space available, to lower-tech soil beds and hanging basket systems in years 2+. The first year focuses on ensuring the greenhouse is fully set up and functioning smoothly.

Who sets up the greenhouse infrastructure?

We work with our suppliers and local contractors to put together a skilled crew of construction workers. We also encourage community members to get involved in the build process, in order to ensure locals are knowledgeable in the build process and are able to provide basic maintenance post build.

What is hydroponics?

Hydroponics is the process of growing plants without using a soil growing medium. The soil growing medium is replaced by nutrient rich solution to feed the roots of the plants. This allows space to be maximized, produce to grow quicker, and water to be used efficiently.

How much is a Growing Dome greenhouse?

Our Growing Domes® pricing is flexible depending on your unique goals. The majority of our Growing Domes® range in pricing between $84,998 and $179,956.

We also offer more growing solutions, including outdoor garden beds, hoop houses, and self contained hydroponic units! Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss options within your budget and funding eligibility.

Can you help me set up growing technology for personal use?

Yes, we can! We typically serve communities looking for growing infrastructure, as well as training and education. You may not need all of what we offer but we can certainly help by connecting you with our suppliers.

How many people does it take to build a greenhouse?

We typically send 2-3 crew members to build the greenhouses, along with encouraging local people to volunteer. In order to avoid overcrowding the location, we allow a maximum of 6 people on site.

What is the breadth of plants that can be grown?

You can grow whatever your heart desires, and we are here to build the space and provide the technology to help you make it all happen. Check out the list below to see what you can grow, depending on your sunlight hours and climate.
Microgreen mix
Sprouting mix
Pansy
Nasturtiums
Marigold
Edible Chrysanthemum
Thyme
Lavender
Sage
Rosemary
Parsley
Oregano
Peppermint
Spearmint
Lemon Balm
Dill
Cilantro
Chives
Basil
Strawberries
Tomato - Early Girl
Tomato - Sweet Million (Cherry)
Cabbage (red)
Cabbage (green)
Cucumber (table)
Cucumber (pickling)
Mini pumpkin
Zucchini
Radish
Spinach
Lettuce (romaine)
Lettuce (head)
Lettuce (salad mix)
Bell Pepper
Peas (sugar)
Peas (shelling)
Green onion
Kale
Pac Choi
Cauliflower
Broccoli
Carrots (regular)
Carrots (coloured)
Beets (large)
Beets (small)
Beans (pole - green)
Beans (bush - yellow)

Can you operate the greenhouse during winter?

Yes, you can grow throughout the winter! Depending on where you are located, you might require supplemental lighting and heating to create the perfect environment for your plants to handle harsh external weather.

Is there a certain way to operate a greenhouse?

No, there is not a certain way to operate the greenhouses. We work with various communities asking for various technologies to meet their growing space needs. That being said, we are here to provide you with our experiences working with past communities to lead you in the right direction.

What do most communities use as an energy source?

Our team is here to provide you with the energy source options that are best for you, based on your specific community and environment. There is no set in stone energy source used in our domes.

How do you intend to optimize greenhouse infrastructure?

In order to optimize space, we strive to develop our educational programming technologies within the greenhouse to improve upon the engagement with community members, and strengthen our relationship with the communities to get a clear picture of what each community needs.

Working With Us

Once a project is confirmed, what are the next steps?

Step 1: Community partner obtains permits with the help of Green Iglu
Step 2: Community prepares the foundation (Green Iglu can assist in choosing a site for the foundation)
Step 3: Green Iglu ships the materials to a secure drop-off point
Step 4: Green Iglu crew meets community at site to start building
Step 5: Green Iglu provides onsite training and continued support via email or video call

Where can we set up the greenhouse?

You can have your greenhouse infrastructure built anywhere you want! As long as it fits your district's regulations, receives adequate sunlight, and meets our spacing requirements.

What is the amount of land required for each greenhouse size?

  • 26-ft dome requires 30 x 30 ft of land
  • 33-ft dome requires 40 x 40 ft of land
  • 42-ft dome requires 50 x 50 ft of land

When deciding on a location, you need to ensure it is not in close proximity to buildings, trees, or anything that will block sunlight, since these domes need at least 8 hours of sunlight to run efficiently.

Does Green Iglu help with funding?

Funding depends on both the project and the area you live in. If needed, Green Iglu is more than happy to assist communities in grant writing and connecting with sponsors to seek the required funding for the project.

Does Green Iglu provide training?

We do provide training! We make sure you are a part of the building process and that you are comfortable with the growing technology set up. Together we come up with ideas on what you can grow once the greenhouse is built. We are also available via phone and email to answer any questions that come up post-build, throughout the growing process.

To learn more, check out our Community Training page.

How does Green Iglu support its clients after purchase?

After purchasing your greenhouse infrastructure, we are there to support you from setting up the foundation to growing your produce. Post build, we have a staff member stay in the community to provide training anywhere from 1-4 months depending on your preferences, and what you plan to use your greenhouse for. We will also provide bi-weekly check-ins during the harvest season to make sure you are optimizing the greenhouse to its maximum efficiency.

How do I know if this is right for me?

Reach out to us, we would love to get to know who you are and what your intentions are with your project. We can also put you in touch with other partnering communities, so you can learn about their experiences with Green Iglu’s growing infrastructure. We also encourage you to watch the other FAQ videos that may speak to some of your questions.

Join the Movement

What will my donation go towards?

Your donations go towards a wide range of expenses, but mainly towards team operations, expansion opportunities, and our education program in order to strengthen food sovereignty in remote communities all across Canada! To learn more, visit our donation page here.

Do you take on volunteers?

Yes, Green Iglu takes on volunteers! Check out the Join the team page on our website.

Green Iglu Overview

What is Green Iglu in a nutshell?

Green Iglu helps communities grow their own fresh food. Our nationally recognized training programs – delivered in person or virtually – share agricultural knowledge tailored to local climates, cultures, and needs. Together with our partners, we work to enhance food security and economic opportunity with every harvest of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Our training focuses on greenhouse agriculture and community gardens, emphasizing environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Since our start as a student-led non-profit in 2015, we have grown into a registered charity that has partnered with 20-plus communities to deliver our trusted, all-ages educational packages. We are proud to be national leaders in food sovereignty training.

What is the difference between food security and food sovereignty?

Food security means that a community enjoys reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Food sovereignty means that a community controls the production and distribution of its food supply, removing the need for outside suppliers.

Who does Green Iglu partner with?

Green Iglu partners with organizations striving to improve food security through local agriculture. Partners can include Indigenous communities, municipalities, schools, businesses, and non-profits like food banks and shelters. While our roots are in remote and Northern regions, we also bring our expertise to urban settings. We provide specialized education for growing food in greenhouses, community gardens, or both.

What communities do you work with?

Green Iglu partners with any community or organization ready to take food security into their own hands. We typically hear from communities struggling with food access – especially fruits and vegetables – due to high prices and geographic isolation. To date, we have worked with 20-plus communities from coast to coast to coast, impacting thousands of lives. While most of our partners are remote Indigenous communities, we are mindful of the unique geographical challenges and cultural contexts that shape each project.

Do you operate outside of Canada?

Green Iglu is currently focused on the tremendous need for improved food security across Canada. However, we are always happy to collaborate on food security projects, so please contact us regarding any partnership opportunities outside of Canada.

How many greenhouses have you built?

While Green Iglu has a proud history of supporting communities through greenhouse setup, our focus today is on what we do best: providing options and training to help communities run healthy, functional greenhouse programs.

As of the last quarter of 2025, Green Iglu has supported the setup of 32 Growing Dome® greenhouses across 20 communities. By the end of 2026, we will complete our final community greenhouse build, reaching 21 communities.

Visit our social media channels to see how these greenhouses are helping communities thrive!

Working With Us

How do we partner with Green Iglu?

Communities and organizations are invited to reach out to Green Iglu at any time. Please email info@greeniglu.com or fill out the Contact Us form on our website. We will arrange a virtual meeting or phone call to discuss your goals, available resources, and preferred learning options.

Once a partnership is finalized, what are the next steps?

Green Iglu enters into formal collaborative agreements with our partners. Once a partnership is finalized, we co-develop a training plan based on local needs and budget. Options include a 5-day or 10-day on-the-ground training package, virtual training, or a combination of both. We also provide guidance on grant opportunities and flexible scheduling to ensure the partnership works for your team.

What type of training does Green Iglu provide?

Green Iglu offers flexible, tailored training options designed to meet community needs:

  • On-the-Ground Training:  Hands-on instruction delivered directly in the community. Choose 5-day or 10-day programs based on community goals and schedule. Ongoing remote support is included following training.
  • Virtual Training: Interactive online sessions with a live instructor and Q&A, delivering the same instruction as on-the-ground at a lower cost. The next best thing to having Green Iglu on the ground.
  • Free Access Courses: Pre-recorded lessons and resources available at no cost, allowing communities to learn at their own pace.

Our lessons cover the full growing cycle, from plant care to harvesting. Learners gain the skills to successfully manage and sustain greenhouses and community gardens.

Will Green Iglu help us find funding?

We’re experts at it. We offer hourly consulting to find and write grant applications for your food security project and educational programs. We’ve helped many communities unlock the funds they need to succeed.

Community Greenhouse Education

Does Green Iglu build greenhouses?

No. Although we have successfully built many greenhouses in the past, we now focus on what creates the greatest impact: education, training, and capacity-building. Our mission is to equip communities with the knowledge and skills to manage thriving greenhouses and community gardens, fostering local control over food production rather than providing physical infrastructure.

What topics do your education programs cover?

We provide a complete toolkit for community-led agriculture, covering every step required to turn a greenhouse or community garden into a lasting success. 

Topics include:

  • Plant care: Soil-plant relationships, watering, pruning, harvesting, and seed saving.
  • Pest and disease management: Identifying pests and nutrient deficiencies, blights, fungus, and natural pest control strategies.
  • Environmental management: Temperature regulation, ventilation, and strategies for season extension.
  • Pollination and biodiversity: Using flowers to attract pollinators and beneficial insects (in applicable regions).

Troubleshooting and optimization: Assessing greenhouse conditions, determining if additional ventilation or other improvements are needed, and finding solutions to improve productivity.

Can your programs help communities apply this knowledge?

Yes! We provide hands-on guidance, virtual support, and follow-up mentorship so communities can directly apply everything they learn. This includes customized solutions such as adjusting layouts, companion planting, troubleshooting soil or environmental challenges, and optimizing growing practices.

Do you provide financial support?

While we do not provide direct funding, we will help you select a training package that is both impactful and affordable. We also offer hourly consulting to find and write grant applications for your food security project and educational programs – and have a strong track record in this regard.

What is the goal of your training?

Our programs equip communities with the knowledge and skills to independently manage thriving greenhouses, community gardens, or both. Our ultimate goal is to cultivate greater food security and community health within our partner communities.

Who delivers the education?

Green Iglu’s experienced educators lead all programs, offering on-the-ground training and virtual courses tailored to the unique needs of each community. Our curriculum is backed by over a decade of hands-on experience and collected data across Canada, adapting agricultural solutions to every climate.

Can your training be applied to personal or small-scale gardens?

Absolutely. While our training is built for community-scale success, the core principles apply to any growing space. From backyard plots to indoor windowsills, we want to build a future where every household feels empowered to grow their own fresh food.

Join the Movement

How will my donation support food security?

Your donation supports the development and delivery of food production education across Canada, with a focus on Northern and Indigenous communities. In these remote regions, fresh fruits and vegetables typically cost double or triple what they do in urban areas. Through on-the-ground and remote training, we help ensure access to healthy produce through the enduring success of community greenhouses and gardens. By maintaining modest overhead and staffing, we ensure your contribution directly impacts our mission. To learn more, visit our donation page here.

Are you accepting new volunteers?

Volunteers play a vital role in our work. We always welcome volunteers with an interest in:.

  • Writing blogs.
  • Conducting student research.
  • Assisting with marketing and word-of-mouth promotion.

Interested volunteers may email their resume to info@greeniglu.com.

Contact Us

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Have a Question?

Green Iglu is a not-for-profit organization that launched in 2015 and became a registered charity in 2019. We build greenhouse infrastructure and offer remote communities tailored training that embraces culture, working towards food sovereignty in Canada. Be sure to check out our FAQ page to see if we have answered any of your questions.

Get In Touch

5th Ave, Arviat, NU X0C, Canada
123-456-789
info@greeniglu.com

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LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We acknowledge that our work takes place on the traditional and unceded territories of Indigenous Peoples across what is now known as Canada. We recognize and honour the diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples who have stewarded these lands, waters, and communities since time immemorial.

As our programs reach northern and remote regions across the country, we remain committed to learning from and working in partnership with Indigenous communities to support food sovereignty, knowledge sharing, and sustainable growth rooted in respect and reciprocity.
CHARITABLE REGISTRATION NUMBER
79901 5474 RR0001
© 2026 Green Iglu. All rights reserved.
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