Huron County, Ontario – Applications are now open for the 2026 Summer Company program. Summer Company supports students aged 15–29 who want to start and run their own small business over the summer. Successful applicants can receive up to $3,000 in start-up funding and take part in business training and mentorship throughout the program.
This year, the County of Huron will award up to 12 students the chance to launch their own companies. The program is made possible through an ongoing partnership with the Province of Ontario, along with support from the McCall MacBain Foundation.
“Summer Company is a practical way for students to turn a business idea into a real, working summer business,” said Tricia Denomme, Business Advisor with the Huron Business Centre. “Whether you’re starting from a hobby or a problem you want to solve, we’ll help you build a clear plan, understand your numbers, and feel supported as you learn what it takes to run a business.”
To apply, interested students must complete and submit the online Summer Company application form. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the intake deadline is Friday, May 15, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. Eligible applicants may be contacted for an interview prior to final approval.
Once selected, participants will be matched with an advisor/mentor, receive basic business training, and gain access to additional business support and promotional opportunities. Participants will receive $1,500 to help with start-up costs, with the remaining $1,500 provided at the end of the summer upon successful completion of the program.
“The Summer Company program really helped me get my business off the ground and stay focused,” said Keagan Knip, Slice-By-Slice 3D Printing (South Huron). “The one-on-one meetings with my Business Advisor were super helpful — they gave me great ideas on how to improve and what to focus on next. The grant money made a big difference too, since I was able to buy the equipment that I needed to get started. One of the biggest things I learned was how to talk to customers. I feel more confident now when it comes to answering questions and explaining my products. I’m excited to keep my business going, even once school starts again in the fall.”
For more information about the Summer Company program, the eligibility criteria, and the application form, please visit: https://www.huroncounty.ca/economic-development/summer-company/
If you have any questions prior to completing the application form, please contact: smallbusiness@huroncounty.ca.
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