If you're a student in Markham with a business idea, now is the time to act. Ontario's Summer Company program is currently accepting applications, and the deadline is April 27, 2026. The program offers up to $3,000 in grant funding — money you don't have to pay back — plus hands-on mentorship to help you launch and run a real business over the summer.
Delivered locally through YSpace at York University's Markham campus, Summer Company has helped hundreds of young entrepreneurs across Ontario turn ideas into operating businesses. Here's everything you need to know about the program and how to apply.
What Is the Summer Company Program?
Summer Company is an Ontario government-funded program designed to help students start and run their own business during the summer months. The program provides financial support, business training, and mentorship from experienced advisors.
The goal is simple: give young people the tools, funding, and guidance they need to experience entrepreneurship firsthand. Whether you want to start a tutoring service, a landscaping business, a food delivery operation, or an online retail store, Summer Company provides the support to make it happen.
What You Get
Accepted participants receive up to $3,000 in total grant funding, distributed in two installments:
- $1,500 at startup — Provided when you begin operating your business, to cover initial expenses such as supplies, equipment, marketing materials, and other startup costs.
- $1,500 upon completion — Awarded after you successfully complete the program requirements, including operating your business for a minimum of eight consecutive weeks and submitting a final report.
Beyond the funding, the program includes:
- Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from experienced business advisors at YSpace. These mentors help with everything from refining your business plan to solving real-time operational challenges.
- Business training: Workshops covering marketing, financial management, customer acquisition, and other essential business skills.
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with other young entrepreneurs in the program, building a peer support network that extends beyond the summer.
Who Can Apply?
The eligibility requirements are straightforward:
- Age: 15 to 29 years old.
- Residency: Must be an Ontario resident.
- Citizenship: Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Education: Must be returning to school in the fall (high school, college, or university).
- Business requirement: The business must operate for a minimum of 8 consecutive weeks during the summer.
- Not currently self-employed: The program is for new business ventures, not existing businesses.
There are no restrictions on the type of business you can start, as long as it's legal and you can realistically operate it over the summer months. Past participants have launched everything from graphic design studios and photography services to pet care businesses and handmade product lines.
How to Apply
The application process involves several steps:
- Prepare your business plan. This doesn't need to be a 50-page document. A clear, concise plan covering what your business does, who your customers are, how you'll make money, and what you need to get started is sufficient.
- Complete a cash flow statement. Show projected income and expenses for the duration of your summer business. This helps demonstrate that your business idea is financially viable.
- Submit the application form. The application is available through the Ontario government's Summer Company portal. You'll provide personal information, business details, and your supporting documents.
- Interview. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview with the YSpace team to discuss their business plan and readiness.
The YSpace team in Markham is available to help with the application process. If you're unsure about any part of your business plan or cash flow statement, reach out to them — they've guided many students through successful applications.
Why You Should Apply
Beyond the $3,000, Summer Company offers something more valuable: real entrepreneurial experience. Running a business — even a small summer operation — teaches you skills that classrooms can't: problem-solving under pressure, managing real customers, handling finances, and building something from scratch.
For students considering entrepreneurship or business careers, this program is an investment in your future that costs you nothing. The grant covers your startup costs, the mentorship de-risks your decisions, and the experience itself becomes a powerful addition to your resume or university application.
Important Dates
- Application deadline: April 27, 2026
- Program start: Summer 2026 (exact dates determined individually)
- Minimum business operation period: 8 consecutive weeks
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so submitting early improves your chances. Don't wait until the last week — give yourself time to prepare a strong application.
For more local business resources and opportunities in Markham, visit markhambusiness.com.