Applications are currently open until May 23, 2022.

Are you a student between 15 and 29 years old with a great business idea? Are you ready to try your hand at entrepreneurship? The Summer Company program of the Province of Ontario may be just what you’re looking for!

The Summer Company program helps students start a summer business and gain valuable experience as an entrepreneur. The program provides entrepreneurial training, mentorship and grants of up to $3,000 to eligible students. You also get to keep any profits generated through the operation of your business.

How To Apply:

To apply for the Summer Company program, you must first submit an eligibility inquiry. Eligible candidates will be invited to submit a business plan with a start-up budget and cash flow projections. This information along with an interview will be used as part of the selection criteria for the program. For more information on how to apply, please contact us.

Eligibility and participation requirements for candidates:

Please complete the eligibility inquiry to see if you qualify for the program. You’re eligible to participate if you are:

• Attending school and returning to school in the fall (this includes full-time, part-time, homeschooling, e-learning, distance learning, apprenticeships, trade schools, etc.)
• A resident of Ontario
• A Canadian citizen or a permanent resident
• Between the ages of 15 and 29 as of April 30, 2022 (a parent or guardian must sign the application for applicants under 18)
• Starting a new business (if you’re unsure, contact your program provider)
• Not working at another job or attending school for more than 12 hours per week during the duration of the program
• Following the Canada Revenue Agency definition of being self-employed
• Able to work over the summer program period:
  • a minimum of 280 hours if you’re a high school student
  • a minimum of 420 hours if you’re a post-secondary student

Eligibility requirements for businesses:

Almost any type of business is eligible, as long as it:

•  Is a sole proprietorship or a corporation where you (the applicant) will be the majority shareholder
• Is an independent business venture
• Is a new business, not previously registered or operated on an on-going basis
• Operates at arm’s length from family business ventures
• Operates in Ontario
• Operates full-time as defined in the business plan
• Follows government rules and regulations for operating a business

For more information, visit the Province of Ontario’s Summer Company website.