Successful applicants will receive an initial $1,500 grant to support start-up costs, with up to an additional $1,500 provided upon successful completion of program requirements.

Participants will complete six virtual training sessions focused on building essential entrepreneurial knowledge and practical business skills. Students will learn how to develop and refine a business idea, understand their target market, manage finances, create effective marketing strategies, and confidently operate their summer business. All training is self-paced and must be completed by July 15.

During the program period, participants are expected to apply their learning by actively working in and on their summer businesses and accumulating the required program hours:

• Minimum of 280 hours (high school students)
• Minimum of 420 hours (post-secondary students)

Participants will also meet virtually on a bi-weekly basis with a Business Advisor throughout July and August. These advisory sessions provide personalized mentorship, structured goal setting, performance feedback, and ongoing guidance to help participants problem-solve, strengthen decision-making skills, and accelerate business growth.

Are you interested in participating in the Summer Company program?

1. Confirm your eligibility by reviewing the Summer Company eligibility criteria.
2. Submit a Summer Company Application Form. The deadline to apply is May 15.
3. A Business Advisor may contact you to schedule a meeting to discuss your application and suitability for the program. Applications are reviewed as they are received, and selected applicants may be contacted for a meeting during the application period. Please note that this is a competitive program with limited spaces, and not all eligible applicants will be accepted.
4. For more information or assistance in developing your business idea, please contact smallbusiness@huroncounty.ca.

To apply to the Summer Company program, you must be:

• A student between the ages of 15 and 29, who is returning to school after the program ends.
• A Canadian citizen or permanent resident who lives in Ontario.
• Working no more than 12 hours per week at another job during the program period.
• See the full Summer Company eligibility check list.

Over the summer program period, participants must be prepared to commit:

• Minimum of 280 hours (for high school students)
• Minimum of 420 hours (for post-secondary students)

Students are encouraged to speak to their guidance teachers to learn more about how the Summer Company program can count towards high school co-op credits.