Bright ideas and big dreams: Kawartha Lakes congratulates the 2025 Summer Company graduates!

Kawartha Lakes – Kawartha Lakes is celebrating the graduation of six inspiring young entrepreneurs from this year’s Summer Company program! From handcrafted jewellery to tech camps and tennis coaching, this year’s participants proved that innovation, passion, and a whole lot of hustle can lead to big things, even in just one summer.

The Summer Company program, a provincial initiative delivered locally by the Kawartha Lakes Small Business Centre, gives youth aged 15 to 29 the chance to launch and operate their own businesses. With up to $3,000 in funding, personalized mentorship, and hands-on training, students turn their ideas into real-life ventures, all while gaining invaluable business experience.

Meet the 2025 Summer Company stars:

Kaylin Durley - Kaydia

Luca Tan - STEM Strategy: Chess & Robotics

Grace Ellery - Ellery Edge

Taeler Mathison - Boots and Blades

Paige Naylor - Hazel James Jewellery

Myriah Mason - Petal and Peck

"This summer, we watched Kawartha Lakes burst with creativity as six young entrepreneurs explored their talents, gained business know-how, and built lasting connections,” said Sandy Greenberg, Economic Development Officer.

These young entrepreneurs didn’t just start businesses, they built confidence, sharpened their skills, and learned how to navigate the real-world challenges of being their own boss. From marketing and customer service to budgeting and time management, their growth has been nothing short of inspiring.

“I want to congratulate the six graduates of this year’s Summer Company program on successfully launching and operating their own businesses,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “This program provides invaluable experience and resources to the next generation of entrepreneurs, equipping them with critical business skills and guidance from local business leaders. It’s encouraging to see the continued success of this provincial initiative, delivered locally by the City of Kawartha Lakes, and the positive impact it has on our community.”

As the season winds down, the impact of the Summer Company program is only just beginning. Many of these ventures will continue into the fall and beyond, and the skills gained will last a lifetime.

For more information about the Summer Company program, visit our website or email Sandy Greenberg at sgreenberg@kawarthalakes.ca.

The Kawartha Lakes Small Business Centre (KLSBC) offers a no cost, confidential and customized advisory service on launching and growing your business. Our advisors have experience supporting new entrepreneurs starting from scratch and consulting with seasoned business owners looking to scale. For more information visit the web page or contact Christine McLean at cmclean@kawarthalakes.ca. KLSBC is funded by the City of Kawartha Lakes and the Government of Ontario.

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