A dozen youth in Windsor-Essex are going back to school this year with more business skills.
The Windsor Essex Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre supported 12 students with grants to launch their summer companies.
"The program provides up to $3,000, half of that can be used towards start-up costs for the business but beyond that, it does provide those wrap-around supports through the small business centre," said Executive Director Sabrina DeMarco. "They have access to a team of advisors that can help them with any questions they have, help them get started and help them along the way."
For the last two to four months students aged 15-29 ran a variety of businesses from lawn care to alterations services.
Hannah Simons, 18, travelled to farmers' markets this summer with her business Hannah's Pawfect Portraits to sell custom pet portraits.
"It's a very good program, everybody here is very helpful and welcoming and they are always there if you have any questions," said Simons.
The Summer Company program has been supporting student-led businesses for 23 years.
