This workshop aimed to democratize advanced microscopy by showcasing open-source solutions spanning the entire imaging pipeline—from building custom microscopes with modular, 3Dprintable components to processing images with computational algorithms and AI-powered analysis tools. Held on March 14, 2025, the event brought together 50 participants from across Switzerland and Europe to explore how open platforms like OpenUC2, Pyxu, and DeepImageJ can make cutting-edge microscopy accessible regardless of institutional resources. The workshop combined morning presentations from leading experts with afternoon hands-on sessions where 30 participants built a fluorescence microscope, implemented deconvolution algorithms, and applied deep learning pipelines to real data. All materials were made openly available on GitHub as reusable educational resources, and are now being integrated into EPFL teaching activities. The event successfully connected independent open microscopy initiatives, established a foundation for a sustainable community around open research data, and demonstrated how collaborative, open-source approaches can lower barriers to advanced biomedical imaging.