The first annual Summer Company Program student networking event took place Wednesday, June 26 at the Chatham-Kent Small Business Centre.
Municipal officials say the event marked a milestone in fostering entrepreneurial spirit among young individuals.
The event provided a platform for students participating in the Summer Company program to connect, share their achievements, and discuss common challenges.
The participants were visited by Mayor Darrin Canniff who engaged with the participants, hearing the stories of what inspired them to become entrepreneurs.
The Summer Company program is designed to empower enterprising young people, aged 15 to 29 to start and run their own summer businesses.
Participants receive training, mentorship, and a grant of $3,000 to support their entrepreneurial journey.
“We are incredibly proud of the students and their accomplishments,” said Economic Development Officer Anthony Wilson, in a press release.
“This event not only celebrates the hard work of young entrepreneurs but speaks to the bright future of Chatham-Kent’s small business community.”
Applications for the 2025 program will open in spring of next year, offering another group of young entrepreneurs the chance to turn their business ideas into reality with support and resources of the Small Business Centre.
More information on the program can be found at www.chatham-kent.ca/EconomicDevelopment/programs/Pages/Summer-Company-.aspx
The cohort of participants and their businesses is as follows:
Ripley Smolders – Ripley’s Trade Services
Evan Reeve – Reever’s Landscaping
Tyler Law – Ace’s Grass Cuttin’
Jarret Drew – JD’s Lawn Care
Owen Graham – Car Spa, www.ckcarspa.com
Elliot Vince, Klare Rumber – CodersBlock, www.codersblock.ca
Ashton Lovel – Squeaky Clean Auto Detailing
Amanda Phair – The Flower and Honey Farm
Harleigh Grant – Parashy Arts, www.parashyarts.bigcartel.com
