Summer Company Initiative: Empowering Young Entrepreneurs (Canada)

Deadline: 15-May-2026

Summer Company offers young entrepreneurs in Ontario the chance to start and run their own business during the summer. Participants receive up to $3,000 in grants, mentorship, and advice from local business leaders to kickstart their business, gaining valuable experience in entrepreneurship.

About Summer Company

The Summer Company program is a fantastic opportunity for young individuals in Ontario to gain hands-on entrepreneurial experience by running their own business during the summer. This initiative provides participants with financial support, mentorship, and business advice to help them turn their ideas into successful ventures. Whether you’re a high school, college, or university student, this program offers the chance to develop business skills and gain real-world experience.

Program Highlights:

• Up to $3,000 in Grants: Participants can receive up to $2,000 upfront to help cover start-up costs and up to $1,000 upon successful completion of the program’s requirements.

• Mentorship and Guidance: Local business leaders provide valuable advice and mentorship to help guide the participants through the process of running their business.

• Start-up Funds: The program offers start-up money to kick off the business, providing young entrepreneurs with the capital they need to succeed.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

The Summer Company program is open to Ontario residents who meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Enrolled in full-time studies at a high school, college, or university.

• A Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

• Between 15 and 29 years old, with parental co-sign required for those under 18.

• Not currently running a business or working/schooling more than 20 hours per week during the program.

• Must return to school after completing the program.

• Cannot have received a Summer Company grant previously.

Additional Eligibility Information

• Individuals receiving social assistance through Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) are still eligible to participate.

• The grant payments will not affect social assistance benefits.

Eligible Businesses

Businesses applying for the program must meet the following criteria:

• Operate as a sole proprietorship or corporation with the participant as the majority shareholder.

• Must function as an independent business venture, not part of an existing family or other business.

• Must qualify as self-employed for income tax purposes.

• Must operate full-time in Ontario and comply with local business regulations.

Program Benefits

• Business Skills Development: Participants will have the opportunity to develop critical business skills such as planning, management, and marketing.

• Mentorship from Local Entrepreneurs: Experienced business leaders provide ongoing advice to help guide the participants through the challenges of entrepreneurship.

• Financial Support: Start-up capital and the possibility of up to $3,000 in funding allow young entrepreneurs to pursue their business ideas without financial barriers.

FAQs

1. Who can apply for the Summer Company program?
   The program is open to Ontario residents between 15 and 29 years old who are enrolled in full-time studies and meet other eligibility criteria.

2. What types of businesses can be started under the Summer Company program?
   Eligible businesses can be almost any type, as long as they are independent ventures, self-employed for income tax purposes, and comply with local regulations.

3. How much funding is available?
   Participants can receive up to $3,000: $2,000 upfront for start-up costs and up to $1,000 upon successful completion of the program.

4. Can participants apply more than once?
   No, individuals who have previously received a Summer Company grant are not eligible to reapply.

5. Is the program available to students receiving social assistance?
   Yes, participants receiving Ontario Works or ODSP are eligible, and grant payments will not affect their social assistance benefits.

6. What is the program timeline?
   The Summer Company program typically runs over the summer, with start-up funding provided upfront and mentorship throughout the program.

7. Can participants receive support if they are under 18?
   Yes, parental co-signing is required for participants under the age of 18.

8. What is the expected outcome of the program?
   Participants gain practical business experience, develop entrepreneurial skills, and have the potential to run a successful business with the support of grants and mentorship.

Conclusion

The Summer Company program offers young entrepreneurs in Ontario a unique opportunity to turn their business ideas into reality. With financial support, business mentorship, and the chance to develop critical entrepreneurial skills, the program equips participants with the tools they need to succeed in the world of business. Don’t miss the chance to gain valuable experience and make your entrepreneurial dreams come true!

For more information, visit Waterloo Region Small Business Centre.