Deadline: 27-Apr-2026
The Summer Company Program provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world entrepreneurial experience while receiving financial and professional support. Participants learn what it takes to start, manage, and grow a business independently over the summer.
The program combines funding, mentorship, and structured learning to help students develop practical business skills and confidence.
What the Program Offers
Participants receive:
• Up to $3,000 in start-up funding
• Mentorship from local business leaders
• Practical training in business operations
• Hands-on entrepreneurial experience
Students build essential skills in:
• Sales and marketing
• Bookkeeping and financial management
• Customer relationship management
• Networking and professional communication
• Independent decision-making
Funding Details
Eligible participants can receive up to $3,000 to start and operate their business during the summer period. Funding is provided to support business launch and operational expenses as outlined in the approved business plan.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
• Be between 15 and 29 years old
• Be enrolled in high school, college, or university
• Live in Markham
• Be Canadian citizens or permanent residents
• Commit to running the business full-time during the summer
Work-hour requirements:
• High school students must complete at least 280 hours
• Post-secondary students must complete at least 420 hours
Additional conditions:
• Applicants cannot currently be running another business
• Cannot exceed 12 hours per week at another job or school
• Previous Summer Company grant recipients are not eligible
Eligible Businesses
The program welcomes a wide range of business ideas, provided that:
• The business is a sole proprietorship or a corporation where the student is the majority shareholder
• The business is newly established and independent
• It operates at arm’s length from any family business
• It functions within Ontario
• It complies with all government regulations
• It operates full-time as defined in the business plan
Why Participate?
The Summer Company Program offers students one of the most valuable summer experiences available. Participants gain:
• Real-world entrepreneurial experience
• Direct mentorship from experienced business leaders
• Practical skills that strengthen future career prospects
• The confidence and independence that comes from running their own company
FAQs
1. How much funding can students receive?
Up to $3,000 in start-up funding.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Students aged 15–29 living in Markham, Ontario, who meet enrolment and residency requirements.
3. What types of businesses are allowed?
Almost any type, as long as it meets ownership, independence, and regulatory requirements.
4. Can previous recipients apply again?
No, previous Summer Company grant recipients are not eligible.
5. Is mentorship included?
Yes, participants receive guidance from local business leaders.
Conclusion
The Summer Company Program is an exceptional opportunity for students to transform business ideas into reality. By combining funding, mentorship, and hands-on experience, the program equips young entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence, and practical knowledge needed to succeed. For students ready to take charge of their summer and explore entrepreneurship, this program provides the perfect launchpad.
For more information, visit Markham Business.
