With support from the Province of Ontario and Millworks Centre for Entrepreneurship, 11 local students are turning their businesses into reality this summer

NEWS RELEASE

CITY OF SAULT STE. MARIE

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What were you doing during your teen years? For 11 local students, the answer is launching their own businesses.

They are participating in the Summer Company Program, which provides up to $3,000 in funding, along with mentorship, training, and business support to help turn their ideas into reality.

This year’s businesses range from lawn care and auto detailing to software development, artisan products, and event rentals.

“This year’s cohort of Summer Company students is incredibly motivated,” said Rick Van Staveren, Director of Economic Development for the City of Sault Ste. Marie. “Sault Ste. Marie has a strong entrepreneurial culture, and it’s inspiring to see that spirit thriving in the next generation of business owners.”

Throughout the summer, participants are matched with experienced experts and local entrepreneurs who provide encouragement and practical advice. One of those mentors is Ed Hervias, Founder and CEO of SooConnect.

“I believe entrepreneurs help make Sault Ste. Marie a more vibrant place to live and work,” said Hervias. “Supporting young entrepreneurs today helps build a stronger community for tomorrow.”

Students also receive mentorship from Erica Hogan of Hogan’s Homestead and Jeff Greco of Cavera Inc., a web design company recently acquired by MODCO. Greco knows the value of the program firsthand, as the Summer Company program helped him to launch his first business.

“The business you start in your teens or twenties may not be the one you run forever, but it will build character and foundational skills to take with you in your career,” said Greco.

The 2026 Summer Company Participants are:

The Summer Company Program is funded by the Province of Ontario and delivered by the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s Economic Development department through Millworks Centre for Entrepreneurship.

To learn more about this year’s participants and follow their business journeys throughout the summer, follow Millworks Centre for Entrepreneurship (@themillworksssm) on Facebook and Instagram.

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