Calling all entrepreneurs!
Huron County is now accepting applications for its annual summer company program, which offers up to $3,000 in start-up cash and business training to young visionaries. The program is open to students aged 15 to 29 with an idea for their own business.
Each summer the county, in partnership with the province and the McCall MacBain Foundation, accepts up to 10 students into the program. They are then provided with $1,500 to help with the cost of starting up a business and are connected with an advisor/mentor who will offer basic business training. Other support and promotional opportunities for the new student business ventures are also provided. The remaining $1,500 is given at the end of the summer, upon completion of the program.
Kipp Johnston, who was able to launch his business KJ Custom Drone Imaging through the program, said he found the experience invaluable.
“I really enjoyed the Summer Company Program. It gave me the opportunity to not only start up a business in an area I love but taught me so much about how to successfully run a business,” said Johnston. “I would highly recommend this program to anyone who has an idea or hobby that they would like to make into a business. It was a great experience, and the advisors are wonderful and so helpful.”
To be eligible, students must be returning to school, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is living in Ontario, and working no more than 12 hours per week at any other job for the duration of the program period.
Applications and resumes are being accepted online until May 16. A business plan and cash flow projection template must also be completed.
"We encourage interested individuals to get in touch with us at the Huron Business Centre with any questions they have as they prepare their business plan and cash flow projections," said Business Advisor Tricia Denomme. “We know that for many,
entrepreneurship is a brand-new journey. As the lead Business Advisor for this program, I’m here to guide you through every step, so you won’t have to do it alone.”
Successful candidates will be sent an acceptance package at the start of June with the program kicking off June 26.
Additional information about the Summer Company program can be found at www.huroncounty.ca/economic-development/summer-company.