Ontario students launch businesses through Summer Company Program

The 2026 Summer Company Program has concluded, highlighting the achievements of young student entrepreneurs across Ontario. The initiative, a partnership between local small business centres and the Province of Ontario, provides students with mentorship, training, and grants of up to $3,000 to launch and operate their own ventures.

In the Kawartha Lakes region, six participants launched diverse businesses, including Game On Event Rentals, which provides jumbo yard games, and Essential Equine, which offers horse show preparation services. Other ventures included handyman services and specialty retail.

In the Windsor-Essex area, sixteen entrepreneurs were honored at a showcase at Willistead Manor. These students, supported by the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Centre and the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade, launched businesses ranging from web design to clothing and window washing. Participants reported gaining practical experience in financial management, customer base identification, and professional networking.