Applications open until April 30 for BACD Summer Company grants of up to $3,000 in Durham Region

Applications are open until April 30 for the Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) Summer Company program, which offers eligible students in Durham Region up to $3,000 to start and operate a summer business.

The program has eligibility and time-commitment rules, including age and school-enrolment requirements, an average weekly hours requirement, and limits on other work or schooling during the program.

BACD says successful applicants also receive training, coaching and mentoring through the centre.

According to the Region of Durham’s notice, the program generally runs from June to Labour Day, which falls on Monday, Sept. 7, 2026.

Students must commit an average of 35 hours per week to run their business.

Participants cannot work another job or attend school for more than 12 hours per week during the program.

Applicants must be 15 to 29 years old, and those under 18 require a parent or guardian signature.

Applicants must be currently attending school and returning in the fall, including full-time or part-time studies, homeschooling, e-learning, distance learning, apprenticeships and trade schools.

Applicants must be starting a new business and must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents who live in Ontario. They must not have previously received a Summer Company grant.

High school students must complete a minimum of eight consecutive weeks in the program. Post-secondary students must complete a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks.

BACD manages the program in Durham Region, and the program is funded by Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.

Participants run their own business and handle marketing, sales and bookkeeping during the program, BACD said in the announcement.