Nine young entrepreneurs in Cornwall are launching their own businesses this summer through a provincial program that gives them a financial boost and guidance from local mentors. Residents can meet them and check out what they are offering at a public showcase on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Benson Centre.
The group is the largest ever to take part in the Summer Company program here, a program funded by the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade and run locally by the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre. Each person gets $3,000 in start-up money, with up to $1,500 given at the start and up to $1,500 after they successfully finish the program. They also receive coaching from experienced local business leaders.
This year’s participants include Brynleigh Meacoe, who is running The Sweet Batch Farmstand, a baked goods business, and Burke Thompson with Papa’s Boy’s Lawncare. Caedmon Van Putten started Vadropho Photography & Videography, while Katsitsionni Thompson offers nail care through Violet Visions. Liam Mulvihill launched Mulvi, Mary Iranyumva runs Divine Shine, Scarlett Bowling provides nail services with Polished by Scarlett, Yves Yepseu operates Yves Photography, and Zaineb Haroon started ZaiMuse. The program is open to students aged 15 to 29 who plan to return to school in the fall.
Mireille Lemire, a business advisor with the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre, said the program received 40 applications this year, the most ever. “We saw a record number of applicants for Summer Company this year, which speaks to the incredible entrepreneurial spirit among young people in our region,” Lemire said. “We are excited to welcome the 2026 cohort and have already been impressed by their level of engagement, creativity, and commitment to building their businesses.”
The showcase is usually held at the Cornwall Civic Complex, but that building is closed for renovations from May to October 2026. The Benson Centre, at 800 Seventh Street West, is hosting the event instead. Past Summer Company participants have gone on to open full-time businesses in the community, including Swish School, Crystal’s Beautique Spa and Beauty Lounge, and Ol’Sugar Barn Ice Cream Stand.
