Summer Company

The Summer Company program helps students start a summer business and gain valuable experience as an entrepreneur. Offered in partnership with the Province of Ontario, this program provides entrepreneurial training, mentorship and grants of up to $3,000 to eligible students.

How to apply

To apply for the Summer Company program, you must first submit an eligibility inquiry. Eligible candidates will be invited to submit a business plan with a start-up budget and cash flow projections. This information along with an interview will be used as part of the selection criteria for the program. For more information on how to apply, please contact us.

Applications closed May 15, 2023 - Please check back in January 2024

Eligibility and participation requirements for candidates

Please complete the eligibility inquiry to see if you qualify for the program. You’re eligible to participate if you’re:

Attending school and returning to school in the fall (this includes high school, college or university)
A resident of Ontario
A Canadian citizen or a permanent resident
Between the ages of 15 and 29 (a parent or guardian must sign the application for applicants under 18)
Starting a new business
Not working at another job or attending school for more than 12 hours per week during the duration of the program
Following the Canada Revenue Agency definition of being self-employed
Able to work over the summer program period:
- a minimum of 280 hours if you’re a high school student
- a minimum of 420 hours if you’re a post-secondary student

Eligibility requirements for businesses

Almost any type of business is eligible, as long as it:

Is a sole proprietorship or a corporation where you (the applicant) will be the majority shareholder
Is an independent business venture
Is a new business, not previously registered or operated on an on-going basis
Operates at arm’s length from family business ventures
Operates in Ontario
Operates full-time as defined in the business plan
Follows government rules and regulations for operating a business

Businesses must meet all of the above requirements. Visit the Province of Ontario's Summer Company website for information about the types of businesses not eligible for funding.

Program guidelines and benefits

Review the Province of Ontario's program guidelines to find out about the different funding opportunities, participation requirements, program term and taxes.

Through the Summer Company program, you can be your own boss and learn what it takes to manage a business. You'll gain experience in a variety of areas, including: