Summer Company
Through a program called Summer Company, you can get two things:
- start-up money to kick-off a new summer business
- training and mentorship from local business leaders to help get the business up and running
Learning how to run your own student business is one of the best summer jobs you can have. You get to be your own boss while learning what it takes to manage a business. Sales, marketing, invoicing, bookkeeping, customer relationship, management — these are just a few of the highly useful skills you will develop.
Who is eligible
You could be eligible, if you:
- go to high school, college or university
- live in Leeds Grenville
- are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident
- are between 15-29 years old (if under 18: a parent needs to sign the application)
- are not already running a business
- are not working at another job or going to school for more than 20 hours a week during the program
- are returning to school after the program ends
Grant amount
Maximum grant: $3,000
Successful Summer Company applicants get:
- up to $1,500 up front to help with start-up costs
- up to $1,500 when you successfully complete the program requirements
When money flows
It takes a minimum of 15 business days to process your first payment after we approve your application and you meet all the requirements.
Dates and hours
Business start date for University or College students: June 1
Business start date for High School students: July 1
End date: Labour Day (but you can choose to keep running your summer business while in school).
You must be prepared to commit to run your business:
- a minimum of 8 weeks in a row for high school students
- a minimum of 12 weeks in a row for post-secondary students
Must attend all training sessions which start at the beginning of June, with most of the sessions happening in July and August.
What kind of business
You can choose to start almost any type of business, as long as it:
- is a sole proprietorship or corporation (where you are the majority shareholder)
- is an independent business venture (not a part of an existing or family business)
- qualifies as “self-employed” for income tax purposes
- operates in Ontario on a full-time basis
- follows government rules for operating a business
How to Apply
Please go to the link below to fill out the application.
Applications are now closed for Summer Company 2026.
If you would like to know more, have a question, or require accommodations, please email:
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