Launch Your Dream: Teh Summer Company Program is Now Accepting Applications
Table of Contents
- 1. Launch Your Dream: Teh Summer Company Program is Now Accepting Applications
- 2. How does the Summer Company program support aspiring entrepreneurs in launching their businesses?
- 3. Launching Your Dreams: An Interview with a Summer Company Success Story
- 4. Archyde: Congratulations on your success with Green Thumbs Up! Can you tell us what inspired you to start your own business?
- 5. Archyde: What was the most valuable aspect of the Summer Company program for you?
- 6. archyde: Many students might be hesitant to launch a business during their summer break. What would you say to them?
- 7. Archyde: Looking back, what’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self at the start of the program?
- 8. Archyde: Your advice is truly inspiring, Sarah! What’s next for Green Thumbs Up?
- 9. Ready to join Sarah and the next generation of Kingston entrepreneurs? Applications for the 2025 Summer Company program are now open! Keep an eye on the program website for deadlines and requirements.
While the school year is in full swing, enterprising students are already eyeing summer opportunities. And what better way to spend the break than launching your own business? The Summer Company program, generously funded by the Ontario government and delivered by Kingston Economic Development, makes this dream a reality for local students aged 15 to 29.
This year’s cohort is shaping up to be another success, building on last year’s impressive record of launching 12 new businesses. The program equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and support they need to thrive.
“What makes Summer Company truly special is that it goes beyond just launching summer businesses,” explains Norman Musengimana, Business Development Manager of Start-ups & Entrepreneurship at Kingston Economic Development. ”While the immediate success of our participants is impressive,the real impact comes from planting that entrepreneurial seed in young minds. We’re not just helping students start businesses today – we’re nurturing the innovative thinking, problem-solving skills, and entrepreneurial mindset they’ll carry throughout thier careers, whether they continue their Summer Company business or pursue other ventures.”
The program, established in 2001, is deeply rooted in fostering youth entrepreneurship. In just the last 10 years, it has empowered 150 new businesses in Kingston and injected $450,000 into the local economy through startup funding. The program combines intensive business training through a bootcamp, personalized mentorship from experienced business leaders, and up to $3,000 to bring innovative ideas to life.
Ben Renwick,a St. Lawrence College student and founder of NoSplat Painters, a successful venture launched through the 2024 program, reflects on his experience: “In Summer Company, I learned that being your own boss is more than just having an idea – it’s about taking action.Each door I knocked on improved my confidence and my sales pitch. While the funding helped launch my painting business, the real value came from the mentorship and connections. I encourage any student considering entrepreneurship to take this opportunity – it’s an investment in your future.”
Ready to take the leap? Applications for the 2025 Summer Company program are now open. The deadline to apply is April 15, 2025. Interested students are encouraged to explore the program’s website for detailed data on requirements and the request process: http://investkingston.ca/summercompany
How does the Summer Company program support aspiring entrepreneurs in launching their businesses?
Launching Your Dreams: An Interview with a Summer Company Success Story
The Summer Company program, generously funded by the Ontario government and delivered by Kingston Economic Advancement, empowers aspiring entrepreneurs aged 15-29 to launch their own businesses. We spoke to Sarah Thompson, a recent Summer Company graduate and founder of “Green Thumbs Up,” a accomplished gardening service launched through the program, about her experience.
Archyde: Congratulations on your success with Green Thumbs Up! Can you tell us what inspired you to start your own business?
sarah thompson: Thank you! The seed of the idea actually came from my own passion for gardening. I’ve always loved spending time outdoors connecting with nature, and I realized manny people in our community would appreciate help with their gardens. Though, they might lack the time or knowledge to keep them thriving. I saw an possibility to share my skills and passion while building something of my own.
Archyde: What was the most valuable aspect of the Summer Company program for you?
Sarah Thompson: It was definitely the combination of practical training and personalized mentorship. The bootcamp covered everything from creating a business plan to marketing strategies, wich was incredibly helpful. But perhaps the most impactful part was connecting with experienced business leaders who offered guidance and support throughout the process. Their insights and advice were invaluable.
archyde: Many students might be hesitant to launch a business during their summer break. What would you say to them?
Sarah Thompson: I encourage anyone with a great idea to take the leap! Summer company provides all the resources and support you need to make it a reality. It’s an unbelievable opportunity to gain real-world experience, develop essential skills, and bring your vision to life. The confidence and knowledge gained during the program will benefit you, irrespective of your future career path.
Archyde: Looking back, what’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self at the start of the program?
Sarah Thompson: Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Everyone, from mentors to program staff, genuinely wants to see you succeed.Embrace the support system and don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance whenever you need it. You’ll be surprised how willing people are to help.
Archyde: Your advice is truly inspiring, Sarah! What’s next for Green Thumbs Up?
Sarah Thompson: My goal is to expand Green Thumbs Up into a sustainable and thriving business in our community.I’m currently exploring opportunities to offer workshops and educational sessions on gardening, and I’m incredibly excited to see my passion continue to grow.
