The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Small Business has celebrated the graduation of the 2026 Summer Company students, recognizing young entrepreneurs from across the region.
The graduates gathered in Maitland with Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett, MPP Steve Clark and United Counties Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke.
“Congratulations to the graduates of this year’s Summer Company Program. These young entrepreneurs are vital to the future of the economy in our rural and small-town communities,” said MPP Steve Clark, “I’m proud that our government is supporting youth entrepreneurship by funding Summer Company. With the support of the great team at Leeds Grenville Small Business, the program gives participants invaluable experience and mentorship to realize their dreams by operating their own small business.”
“The Counties greatly appreciates the continued funding from the province to support the Summer Company program. We are inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs by providing them the training, mentors, and incentive to run their own business. This gives them an experience that will broaden their future opportunities and perhaps join the many Summer Company graduates that are now a part of our regional economy,” stated Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke.
Throughout the summer, participants had the opportunity to start and operate their own businesses while gaining practical experience, business skills, confidence and connections within their communities.
This year’s businesses included landscaping and property maintenance, photography, private swimming lessons, locally grown produce and basketball training.
Successful Summer Company graduates receive a $3,000 grant, business training and ongoing mentorship to help them develop their businesses.
The program is funded by the Government of Ontario in partnership with the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the City of Brockville.
Officials say the program helps encourage youth entrepreneurship and gives participants valuable experience that can support future opportunities and contribute to the region’s economy.
(By: Tim Baltz)
