Summer Company showcase highlights young Cornwall, SDG entrepreneurs

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The successful applicants of the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre’s 2025 Summer Company program participated in an annual business showcase on Thursday.

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While typically hosted at the Cornwall civic complex, which is currently closed from May-Oct. for renovations, the eight young entrepreneurs from Cornwall and SDG set up at the bustling Benson Centre from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Programs administrator Ana Porporo explained the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre received a record-breaking 40 applications for this year’s program intake, and eight companies were ultimately selected to receive funding and support. Each participant completed a detailed business plan, including marketing materials and financial projections. One company from Akwesasne was selected but the young entrepreneur decided to go in a different direction.

Porporo praised her team for their efforts to inform local secondary and post-secondary students about the Summer Company program, which has gained increased interest from young entrepreneurs in Cornwall and SDG. The eight companies selected this year boast variety, from stained glass, sticker, and balloon art, to lawn and car care, and more.

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“Today is when they get a chance to showcase their business; showcase their services, their products,” said Porporo. “This is the highlight of the program. They get the chance to market themselves and let the community know about what they do.”

The eight entrepreneurs taking part in the Summer Company program this year are: Aditya Kadyan with Carshine; Daksh Sahu with DVWN; Hudson Gibbs with Power Shot Academy (PSA); Julia Butlin with Glass by Jules; Milo Hatton with Normal is Boring; Muminah Hafizi with Pop of Joy; Nicholas Mondoux with Sparkle and Shine; and William Beaumont with Greener Acres Lawn Care.

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To be eligible for the program, applicants must be in secondary or post-secondary school and returning to their studies in the fall. The program started in late May and continues through to early September. Funded by the Government of Ontario, and administered by the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre, participants receive $3,000 in start-up funding assistance, as well as hands-on coaching and mentoring.

Porporo explained the youngest participant this year is in Grade 9 and the eldest is entering their third year of university.

“Summer Company gives young people a chance to roll up their sleeves and really experience what it’s like to run a business,” said Mireille Lemire, business advisor, in a written statement. “Through the program, we hope to help shape the future of entrepreneurship in our community.”

To learn more about the program, visit businessenterprisecentre.ca/start/programs/summer-company/.

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