The second annual Summer Company Program student networking event took place Thursday, June 26 at the Chatham-Kent Small Business Centre.
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, Municipal officials say.
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’re thrilled to launch another exciting year of the Summer Company program and to welcome these talented young entrepreneurs into the Chatham-Kent small business community. This initiative empowers students to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation. We look forward to mentoring them and supporting their journey as they build the foundation for their businesses,” said Economic Development Officer Anne Marie Fortner, in a press release.
“This event not only celebrates their hard work and dedication but also highlights the promising future of Chatham-Kent’s entrepreneurial landscape.”
Applications for the 2026 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 Chatham-Kent 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:
JT Barrett- Barrett’s Services- Lawnmowing/Painting
Isaac Cook- Gloryshine Mobile Detailing
Rhyan Corbett- Bloom Marketing
Tina Dyck- Clean & Cozy- Cleaning Company
Hailey Kempe- SONA- Jewelry & Crafts
Rileigh Klassen- RK Auto Detailing
