The biggest ideas start small. The seeds of these ideas are planted and what happens next is based not only on drive and commitment but also a supportive environment.
Today’s young entrepreneurs can take their business ideas to the next level. The Summer Company Program allows youth, ages 15-29, to grow their ideas and flourish as a business owner.
Summer Company is offered in partnership with the Province of Ontario. This program cultivates the spirit of entrepreneurship through training, mentorship, and grants of up to $3,000 to eligible students.
It’s a comfort to know that the tools to succeed are within reach for today’s aspiring entrepreneurs. Summer Company promotes business growth by supplying the necessities through education, mentoring, and hands-on experience. The skills that are gained are not only applicable in business but all aspects of life.
Many have participated in the program and some are still operating their original businesses today, like Efe Eghujovbo of Simply Hair Care. Efe was a 2020 Summer Company participant, and she writes of her overall experience with the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre:
“Thanks to the Small Business Centre and their early belief in my dream as a black female young entrepreneur, Simply Haircare has grown far beyond what I could have ever imagined. From being featured in local newspaper articles to hitting the shelves at the Black Owned Toronto Eaton Centre Store, I am ever so grateful to the Windsor-Essex community for your support throughout the years!”
Tess Ogunjinmi of Serene Essentials had this to say of her Summer Company experience:
“I had the opportunity to participate in the Summer Company Program in the summer of 2022. Through this program, I was able to turn my passion for eco-friendly products into a successful business called Serene Essentials, which specializes in handcrafted soy candles. Being involved in the Summer Company program helped me gain hands-on entrepreneurship experience and develop my leadership skills. The program provided me with the resources and support to turn my business idea into a reality.”
Tess adds,” Overall, the Summer Company Program was an incredible experience for me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it.”
There’s a good chance you’re reading this article as an entrepreneur. You can think back to what it was like when you started out. Wouldn’t you have benefitted from such a program? Or, perhaps, you are the student, wondering if you could really make your big business idea a reality. Either way, if you, or someone you know needs this extra push to get out there, this article is the encouragement you need.
The deadline to apply for the 2023 Summer Company Program is May 15th, 2023. You can learn more about the program and fill out the eligibility form here: Summer Company 2023. We also welcome any questions you may have. Email us at info@webusinesscentre.com or call the office at 519-253-6900.
Be your own boss! Become a client of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre and receive support in launching or expanding your small business, contact us for more information.
