Huron County, Ontario – Applications are now being accepted for the annual Summer Company program. The Summer Company helps students aged 15-29 who are looking to start their own business. Successful applicants will receive up to $3,000 in start-up funds as well as business coaching throughout the summer.
The County of Huron will award up to 10 students the chance to start their own companies this summer. This is made possible through an ongoing partnership with the Province of Ontario and a new partnership with the McCall MacBain Foundation.
“I really enjoyed the Summer Company program, it’s a very safe space to approach all of the ideas I had about running a business,” said Brette Brohman, owner of Brohman Custom Designs. “I wouldn’t have had this kind of experience anywhere else – it’s an experience that is 100% worth the time and effort. The people running the program have done a fantastic job of facilitating the opportunity and helping me feel supported and equipped with the resources I need.”
Applications for the Summer Company program are open through May 17, 2024. To apply, individuals must determine if they are eligible and submit an application package which includes a business plan and cash flow projections. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the business coaching staff at the Huron County Economic Development who will happily support individuals in preparing to apply.
“We encourage interested individuals to reach out to the Huron County Economic Development department prior to submitting their application,” explains Huron County Business Coach, Tricia Denomme. “As the Business Coach, I will work with individuals to help them prepare their business plan and cash flow projections for their application, instead of them trying to figure it out on their own.”
All submitted applications will be reviewed and applicants may be contacted for an interview before being approved for the program. Once participants are approved, they will be connected to a coach/mentor, provided with basic training, and receive other business support and promotional opportunities. Participants will be provided with $1,500 to help with start-up costs and the remaining $1,500 at the end of the summer, upon the completion of the program.
For more information about the Summer Company program and the eligibility criteria, please visit: www.huroncounty.ca/economic-development/our-services/incentives-programs/summer-company
To reach out for Business Coach support prior to submitting your application, please email smallbusiness@huroncounty.ca.