Summer Company is an annual program. In 2025, key program dates include:

• February 18 – Program Open for Applications
• May 16 – Application Deadline
• June 1 – Acceptance Packages sent out for Successful Candidates
• June 26 – Program Kick-Off (in-person)
• July / August – Program Period (training, mentorship)
• August 19 – Wrap-Up Event (in-person)

There are 6 weekly virtual training sessions that take place on Wednesdays from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm from July 2 to August 6. There will be bi-weekly one-on-one business advisory meetings throughout the program period.

Within the program period, participants are expected to accumulate the required number of hours working in and on their summer companies.

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

The Business Advisor will provide tools and resources to support the students’ development and the success of their business.

Are you interested in participating in the Summer Company program?

1. Verify that you meet the Summer Company eligibility criteria.

2. Submit a Summer Company Application Form. Once received, the lead Business Advisor will contact you to provide additional information and supply you with a business plan and cash flow projection template to complete.

3. To complete your application to the Summer Company program, interested individuals will need to return their package containing:
   • A Business Plan with Cash Flow Projections (using a template provided)
   • Updated resume

A Business Advisor is available to assist students throughout the application process, including support to complete the Business Plan and Cash Flow Projections template.

4. After submitting a completed application, individuals will be required to participate in an interview process. This is a competitive program with limited spots available; not all eligible applicants will be accepted into the program.

5. Those successfully accepted into the program will receive an initial grant installment of $1,500 to support business start-up costs. Participants will receive up to $1,500 upon program completion.

6. Participants will be connected to a Business Advisor and provided with training to launch and promote their summer business!

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.