Summer Company
Are you a student enrolled in a secondary or post-secondary institution and thought about launching your own business over the summer?
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 Whitchurch-Stouffville start or grow their business and develop 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 in September 2024. All that’s required is a good idea, commitment and hard work. In return, students receive:
- Receive financial support of up to $3,000
- Hands-on training and skills development
- Coaching and guidance
- Mentorship to help develop and launch a business over the summer
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 Requirements
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 guidelines on the Summer Company webpage. Basic eligibility criteria include:
- York Region resident residing in one of the northern six communities
- Between the aged 15 to 29 as of April 30, 2024
- Must be a student returning to school in the fall of the same calendar year (full-time, part-time, homeschooling, e-learning, distance learning, apprenticeships, trade schools, etc.)
- Plan to start a new summer business
- Have not received a previous Summer Company grant
Spots are filled on a first–come first–served basis and the deadline to apply is Sunday, May 12, 2024.
For more information, please reach out to us at ysbec@york.ca.
Summer Company Testimonials
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.
Cole Benoit, one of our talented participants, started York Durham Student Window Cleaning. Hear about how he started his company with the help of the York Small Business Enterprise Centre and the Summer Company Program!
MEET OUR 2024 SUMMER COMPANY PARTICIPANTS
Edward Cobbold | Pucktive
Pucktive aims to change the way hockey players think about protective equipment. We specialize in lightweight, breathable and customizable gear for hockey players that offers cut resistance from skate. Check out our first product line the Hockey Tarp, and next time you take the ice, go tarps on!
Website: pucktive.com
Instagram: @Pucktive
Nevaeh Silver | Decked Out Detailing
Imagine having your boat meticulously detailed to perfection without ever leaving your dock. At Decked Out Detailing, I will bring professional detailing services directly to you with my convenient mobile service. I specialize in providing comprehensive detailing options, customizable packages, and eco-friendly options to ensure your boat looks its best while minimizing environmental impact.
With exceptional customer service and a commitment to exceeding expectations, Decked Out Detailing is your trusted partner for all your boat detailing needs. Experience the convenience, quality, and satisfaction of Decked Out Detailing – where we bring the sparkle back into your sails!
Website: deckedoutboatdetailing.com
Instagram: @Decked.Out.BoatDetailing
Hasti Mohsenipour | designbyhasti
madebyhasti is a sustainable clothing brand that is committed to designing intentional garments made to last you a lifetime, all while remaining classic and captivating. Next time you have nothing to wear or are developing your own personal style, check madebyhasti on all platforms to unleash your wardrobe!
Daniel Xa | Daniel's Cafe
Daniel’s Cafe is an interactive social club that offers a range of engaging experiences such as live music, games and tailored activities for youth with intellectual disabilities. Daniel’s Cafe advocates for mental health awareness to the disabled community. Through our events, we aim to bring joy and entertainment to our participants and their families, friends and the community.
Daniel’s Cafe has collaborated with the City of Vaughan and is the award winner of Warren Garrett Inclusive Programming Award. We offer a variety of activities, including live music performances featuring pop songs with opportunities to sing and dance. Additionally, we have interactive games such as Music Bingo, Guess the Logo, Would You Rather, and Two Truths and a Lie.
Website: danielscafe9.wixsite.com/about
Instagram: @daniels.cafe9
Mujaahid Karim | GreenWave Lawn and Pool Care
GreenWave Lawn and Pool Care is a premier local business dedicated to transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional and sustainable environments. We specialize in comprehensive landscaping services and pool maintenance for residential properties. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to delivering high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
Email: greenwavelawnandpoolcare@gmail.com
Instagram: @greenwave_lawn_and_pool_care
Kiarash Zarrabi | Xendraut Clothing
As a student-run clothing brand, we at Xendraut Clothing strive to combine what makes modern fashion great with traditional Persian designs. Our clothes, limited in supply, are made not only to deliver great quality with stylish designs but also to tell the story of the Persian people. From the times of the Qajar dynasty to the contemporary struggle of the Persian people for their right to freedom.
Furthermore, our products are made using environmentally friendly processes and materials. Next time you have a craving for something special, something that stands out, shop at Xendraut Clothing!
Website: xendrautclothing.store
Instagram: @xendrautclothing
Facebook: @xendrautclothing
Ashwin Kirupananthan | ClearView Windows
ClearView Windows is a window cleaning company that offers a unique service for an affordable price. We provide our services to individuals that are in need of lightening up their homes. Next time you think about cleaning your home, call ClearView Windows to help you with the journey.
Website: ashwinkirupa.wixsite.com/my-site-2
Claire Lynch | Royal Swimmers
Royal Swimmers is a private swim school that offers lessons in a local Stouffville pool as well as at your home! We provide convenient and affordable lessons that will allow you or your child to receive the care and attention necessary to excel at swimming. Find your fins with Royal Swimmers this summer!
Website: royalswimmers.squarespace.com/contact
Instagram: @Royal_Swimmers
Bethany Edwards | AquaSplash Swim School
AquaSplash Swim School is a mobile swim school that specializes in delivering personalized swim instruction directly to clients’ pools, serving the communities of Aurora, Holland Landing, Keswick, and Newmarket. Private and semi-private lessons are offered to ensure that each swimmer receives tailored guidance and support, fostering maximum progress and comfort in their own pool.
Dillan Cook | Cook's Cut & Care
Cook’s Cut & Care is more than just a landscaping business – it’s a promise of reliability and a personal touch. As a newcomer to the scene, our focus on grass cutting sets us apart. We understand the importance of consistent, quality service in the landscaping industry, and we bring that dedication to every project we undertake.
Yegor Ignatenko | PrintedShapes
PrintedShapes is a 3D modeling and printing company that specializes in printing different material items through customer submitted STL/OBJ files. PrintedShapes also offer custom modeling to first get a piece you need modeled. The team can then print it in a variety of colours and materials.
Website: printedshapes.com