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, in partnership with the Province of Ontario, will award up to 5 students the chance to start their own companies this summer.
“The Summer Company is really cool. The workshops were interesting, and I enjoyed meeting other young people in the area with similar interests to me,” said Will Samuell, owner of Vintage in Canada, a participant of the 2022 program. “The best part was that I received some money to purchase the things I needed for a Market Booth and by the end of the summer I made some extra money help pay for university next year!”
Applications for the Summer Company program are open through May 15, 2023, with high-skills major (co-op placement) applications due April 30, 2023. To apply, individuals must determine if they are eligible and submit an online application inquiry. They will be connected with the local program provider, Huron County Economic Development, who will support individuals in submitting an online application which includes a business plan and cash flow projections.
“We encourage interested individuals to reach out to the Huron County Economic Development department prior to submitting their application,” explains Huron County Business Coach, Genny Smith. “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.