Pandemic-proof business idea? Young entrepreneurs apply within

What better lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs than adapting to our current business climate — in which "the way we used to do things," does not necessarily apply?

The Business Centre North Bay Parry Sound's Carla White is expecting fresh eyes and resilient minds to bring innovative ideas to this year's edition of Summer Company. Youth and Entrepreneurship Coordinator White says the program is looking for students with ideas for a mid- or post-pandemic business model.

"This year is giving students an opportunity to brainstorm and think of creative ways they can alter any business practice to make it work."

Successful applicants receive a grant up to $3,000 in funding from the provincial Ministry of Economic Development & Growth, allowing high school and post-secondary students the opportunity to run their own business this summer. The profits are the participants' to keep. The major caveat: the business must be able to operate while following all social distancing regulations.

"Any service that can be delivered online is fair game," says White, "whether it's a product or service you can do remotely." 

Arts and crafts are more than acceptable. "If they want to physically make something and sell it, we are going to support any sort of e-commerce and creative ways to reach people through the internet, primarily. Painting — and selling your paintings is a business."

The application deadline is May 17 and the program will accept up to 11 young entrepreneurs. To be eligible for Summer Company, applicants must be 15 to 29 years of age, returning to high school, college or university in Ontario, as well as an Ontario resident. Applicants must not already be running a business and cannot work 12 hours or more per week at another job during the program.

To apply for Summer Company, click here.

The program typically runs a business fair at the local Staples outlet but this year is anything but typical. White says Staples has been a huge supporter of the program and — while there is a chance an in-person event could take place at the tail end of the program in August, no decisions have been made.

The program naturally lends itself to mentorship, and this year the experiences of the participants will be of the more virtual nature. Workshops, seminars, and online networking opportunities will play a large role, White says.

White adds, "It's all about making adjustments so you can run a business during this time."

"While students are at home and looking for creative ways to stay busy, this program offers a positive spin on our current situation. Let's encourage our youth to think bigger than the COVID-19 pandemic, use their fresh ideas and try their hand at entrepreneurship."