SUMMER COMPANY
Are you enrolled in a secondary or post-secondary institution as a full-time student but thought about launching your own business?
Each summer, in partnership with the Government of Ontario, the York Small Business Enterprise Centre administers its Summer Company program. Summer Company helps support young entrepreneurs in Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Newmarket, and Stouffville, grow their skills. Students in Markham, Richmond Hill, and Vaughan interested in applying should reach out to their local small business enterprise centre.
The program is designed to foster and develop the entrepreneurial spirit in students between the ages of 15 to 29 , and who are registered to return to school full-time in September 2023. All that’s required is a good idea, commitment and hard work. In return, students receive:
- Hands-on training and skills development
- Coaching and guidance
- Mentorship to help develop and launch a business over the summer
- Opportunity to receive financial support of up to $3,000
Read about the many exciting ventures launched by young entrepreneurs across Ontario in the Summer Company Yearbook, and learn more about the program at ontario.ca/summercompany
ELIGIBILITY FOR SUMMER COMPANY
To start the application process, check to see if you’re eligible by reviewing the Summer Company program checklist. You should also read about the program details on the Summer Company webpage. Basic eligibility criteria include:
- York Region resident aged 15 to 29
- Must be a student returning to school in the fall of the same calendar year
- Plan to start a new summer business
- Have not received a previous Summer Company grant
For more information about when the next round of applications will open, please reach out to us at ysbec@york.ca.
Check out this special testimonial from Maggie McColl of Maggie’s Swim Academy, one of our talented participants. Hear about her journey, challenges, and the invaluable experience gained through the Summer Company program.
MEET OUR 2023 SUMMER COMPANY PARTICIPANTS
Agrin Hamzehazar | Loots of Love
Sells premade loot bags and loot bag kits
Joie Felician | Felician
Consignment store for vintage luxury handbags and dresses
Kathleen Stawski | Little Fishies Swimming School
Swimming instruction
Maggie McColl | Maggie's Swim Academy
Swimming instruction
Michael Wang | Smiles Across Borders
Not-for-profit pen pal program between Canadian and Kenyan high school students
Noah Savage | Grime Stoppers
Pressure washing services
Santhosh Rajmohan | AET Basketball Association
Not-for-profit teaching basketball to disenfranchised children
Tyrus Harper | Tyrus Turf Care
Lawn care services
Cole Benoit-Meschino | Window Washing
Window washing services