Making it Happen
Summer Company is a summer experience program that provides up to $3,000 and hands-on coaching and mentoring to help students launch their own summer businesses. With help from the program, these four young entrepreneurs were able to turn their ideas into a business. If they did it, so can you.
The Summer Company Experience
Brittany Bell
Door-Step Detailing
Barrie, Ontario
Not everyone has time to clean their cars. Realizing that, Brittany Bell took Door-Step Detailing, her Barrie car-detailing service, directly to customers for on-the-spot cleaning.
“We cleaned while people worked,” Bell says. Despite having no prior entrepreneurial experience, the Georgian College marketing student learned quickly. “After cleaning for nine hours,” she says, “I needed to make time for accounting, booking appointments, restocking equipment, et cetera. Without proper time management, a successful business is not possible.” She plans to operate her business next summer – and make it bigger. “Eventually, I would love to franchise it,” she says.
Justin Ruetz
Justin’s Premium Produce
Port Elgin, Ontario
To be successful in business, you have to be passionate about it. Without loving his work, Justin Ruetz would have found operating Justin’s Premium Produce a tough slog. He adds that he was able to achieve work-life balance despite the daily demands of operating his business. “Choose something that you enjoy doing and be willing to listen to other people’s ideas,” says Justin, as he reflects on the advice he received from local farmers. Justin intends to operate his business next summer. “In the future, I hope to remain my own boss,” he says.
Natasha Lariviere
7 Spirits Leadership Team
North Bay, Ontario
Natasha Lariviere’s take charge attitude helped her business, 7 Spirits LeadershipTeam, deliver workshops, seminars and summer camps directed at Aboriginal youth and teens, especially those considered “at risk.” “The main goal was to engage youth in a positive way,” she says, “by promoting healthy lifestyles and encouraging them to complete their education.” Natasha, a first-time entrepreneur, who hired four employees - all Aboriginal students - learned important lessons. “You have to make sure you keep track of your money and supplies. You should always know your budget so that you are not overspending .”
Luke DiMarco
DiMco Productions
Cobourg, Ontario
Luke DiMarco turned his lifelong passion for computers and the latest Internet technology into DiMco Productions, a business specializing in reviewing and testing products from technology companies. After assessing the products, Luke posted video testimonials online for potential customers to view. Luke credits Summer Company for “opening his eyes to business opportunities in his community.” Through mentorship, he established connections and new business opportunities, which ultimately boosted his earnings. The most important lesson he learned from operating his business: “pamper your customers.” He adds: “They are what make your operation hold up. Work hard for them. Show them dedication, and they will recommend your services.”
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Students and Young 