The Summer Company Program in Cornwall and S, D & G is finishing for the season, and participants in the program recently gathered at the Cornwall Civic Complex for a wrap-up celebration party.

The program provides students between the ages of 15 & 29 with up to $3,000 in funding to help launch their own business. Through the program, the young entrepreneurs also receive hands-on business coaching and mentoring from local business leaders. Summer Company is sponsored by the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and administered by the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre.

“It was a worthwhile experience,” said Summer Company participant Jordan Ingola, owner of ACE Tutoring Services. “I made money, gained entrepreneurial skills and worked in a field I enjoy.”

The recent wrap-up celebration gave the Summer Company participants an opportunity to meet with their fellow business colleagues and mentors one last time before heading back to school.

But for some of the young entrepreneurs in this year’s program, the end of Summer Company does not mean the end of their entrepreneurial experiences. Several participants have indicated they would like to continue operating their businesses even after the program ends.

"Initially, the thought of opening my own business seemed daunting,” said KD’s Kupboard owner Kaitlyn Alguire, who plans to continue on with her business. “With the help of the Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre and the support from my friends and family, I've discovered that anything you dream can be achieved.”

The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre is pleased with the turnout for this year’s program.

“We have been very fortunate to have great students, mentors and support from the community for this year’s program,” said Business Consultant Candy Pollard. “We are looking forward to Summer Company 2012 and hope it will be as successful as this year.”