Summer Company Program
Funding, Training, and
Mentorship for Youth
Entrepreneurs.
Now accepting applications for the 2026 Summer Company Program!
The Summer Company Program is an opportunity for eligible youth to receive up to $3,000 in grants to start a business in the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County. The program provides students (ages 15 to 29) with grant dollars, business skills development, training, advice, and mentoring.
Youth in our community can be their own boss this summer, while building valuable skills for their future.
Students eager to take initiative and interested in learning how to run a business, can apply today to the Summer Company Program. You will be guided every step of the way from developing a business plan and budget to marketing strategies to launch your business.
Spots are limited, apply early!
Tips for the application:
- We want to see why you’re interested in starting this business. Let us know what’s exciting about the business idea!
- There’s no need for a perfect plan, just an idea to be confident about!
- Understand what resources are needed to make the business happen, show your research in the application.
Spend the summer building your business, learning about entrepreneurship and create your own job!
Learn from experts who will guide you every step of the way.
Grow your business in a cohorted program with like-minded individuals!
Receive a $3,000 grant toward starting your very own business.
Need inspiration for your application?
Check out our 150+ Business Idea Guide!
Eligibility Requirements For Summer Company:
- 15 to 29 years old as of April 1, 2026
- Must be returning to high school, college, or university full-time in September 2026
- Must live and/or operate your business in the City of Peterborough or Peterborough County and be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Must be able to commit to running your business full-time for the summer (minimum 280 hours for high school students or 420 hours for post-secondary students)
- Cannot work at another job or attend summer school for more than 20 hours a week during the program
- Cannot have received a Summer Company grant in the past
Neha Mervin always dreamed of being a dance teacher. Growing up with Bollywood dance, she loved how it connected her to her culture and gave her joy. When she realized there were no Bollywood dance classes in Peterborough, she decided it was the perfect opportunity to bring something new to the community. “It felt cool to offer something that wasn’t already offered in Peterborough,” she explains. The idea for Sparks of Bollywood had been in her heart for years. “I was able to take this idea and turn it into a real business, and happy with how it turned out.”
Have questions?
Reach out to Allison Adam, our Entrepreneurship Officer at the Business Advisory Centre.
allison@cfpeterborough.ca
