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Applications for the 2026 Summer Company program are now closed.

Learning how to run your own student business is one of the best summer jobs you can have. Through the Summer Company program, eligible youth entrepreneurs between the ages of 15 and 29, can receive coaching, training, and grants to help them launch and operate a wide variety of businesses.

The program supports students with:

  • training and business skills development to help them create business plans and prepare to run their own business for the summer
  • $1,500 of start-up funding for the new business and an additional $1,500 upon successful completion of the program
  • mentorship and guidance from local business professionals and consultants

The Orangeville and Area SBEC will assist you with the development of your business plan and throughout your business operations during the summer. Sales, marketing, bookkeeping, customer relationship management and networking are just a few of the highly useful skills you’ll develop. 

This program is delivered locally by the Orangeville and Area Small Business Enterprise Centre and funded in partnership with the Government of Ontario.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 How do I apply?

The program for 2026 is open through May 15, 2026. Apply now to the Orangeville and Area Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) using the online application form.

If you have questions about the program or the application process, please contact us. 

What is the eligibility criteria?

Applicants must:

  • be a high school, college or university student
  • live in Ontario
  • be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • be between 15 and 29 years of age (if under 18, a parent needs to sign the application)
  • not be already running a business
  • not be working at another job or going to school for more than 12 hours a week during the program
  • be returning to school after the program ends

If you have received a Summer Company grant in the past, you are not eligible to apply again. 

What kind of business can I run?

Examples of past Summer Company businesses include:

  • lawn and garden maintenance
  • window washing
  • swimming instruction
  • car detailing
  • photography
  • graphic design

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

If you have questions about whether or not your business idea is eligible, please contact us. 

What are the program dates and commitments?

Important dates

Application period: February 2 to May 15, 2026

Applications are evaluated as they are received. We encourage early submission as space may be filled prior to the official deadline.

Interviews conducted: March 9 to May 22, 2026

Program period:

  • May 1 to September 1, 2026, for post-secondary students
  • July 1 to September 1, 2026, for high school students

Time commitments

Over the summer program period, you must be prepared to commit to:

  • a minimum of 420 hours (post-secondary students)
  • a minimum of 280 hours (high school students)
  • weekly meetings with your program provider and business mentor over the program period
  • an in-person commitment at the Orangeville Farmers’ Market on Saturday, July 11, from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to sell your product or service

2026 Summer Company Participants

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Caleb Hamilton – Caleb's Drum Academy

Caleb’s Drum Academy offers high-quality drum education that is accessible, engaging and affordable. Lessons go beyond standard instruction by combining traditional drumming with an immersive studio production experience. Students use a professional dual-drum setup and 16-channel digital mixing equipment to record, track and analyze their playing in real time. Learn more about Caleb's Drum Academy.

Contact Caleb

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Clover Sawyer – Clover's Creations

Clover's Creations is a farm-based flower business inspired by a lifelong love of flowers. Every flower is carefully grown using natural growing practices, without pesticides, and hand-picked at peak freshness. Thoughtfully arranged bouquets showcase the beauty of each season and are perfect for special occasions, heartfelt gifts or brightening your home. Learn more about Clover's Creations.

Contact Clover

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Hudson Brooks – Rise & Shine Auto Care

Rise & Shine Auto Care is a mobile car detailing business offering convenient, high-quality interior and exterior detailing services. Serving clients throughout Dufferin County and surrounding areas, Rise & Shine provides detailing solutions for both personal and fleet vehicles. Learn more about Rise & Shine Auto Care.

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Jade Rowley – Modern Memories

Modern Memories offers digitization services to help preserve precious memories. By converting aging photographs and films into modern digital formats, Modern Memories ensures they remain accessible, viewable and preserved for years to come.

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Nate Zimmerman – Softener Salt Refill Co.

Softener Salt Refill Co. offers convenient softener salt delivery and refill services in Orangeville and the surrounding area. Service includes delivery of salt, filling your softener, cleaning up afterward, and helping keep your home supplied with soft, clean water without the hassle. Friendly, reliable service is provided with every visit. Learn more about Softener Salt Refill Co.

Contact Nate