PROGRAMS
Summer Company
Looking for a job this summer? Why not create your own with help from the Summer Company program?
Applications for the 2026 Cohort are closed.
1. Program Description
Through the Summer Company program, students can get start-up money to kick-off a new summer business, along with advice and mentorship from local business leaders to help get the business up and running.
Eligible participants receive up to $1500 in start-up funds and business coaching from the Small Business Centre Advisors throughout the summer. Students who complete the program and meet all the requirements receive an additional $1500 when they return to school.
A limited number of spaces are available each year and the application process is competitive. Interested students are encouraged to visit the Summer Company website for additional information.
2. Who is eligible
You could be eligible if you:
- go to high school, college or university
- live in Ontario
- are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- are between 15-29 years old (if under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the agreement for the applicant)
- business is under 1 year old
- 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
You cannot apply again if you have received a Summer Company grant in the past.
3. Dates and hours
Over the summer program period, you must be prepared to commit:
- a minimum of 280 hours for high school students
- a minimum of 420 hours for post-secondary students
4. 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 (avg 35 hours a week devoted to business)
- follows government rules for operating a business
