If you are a youth under 30 years old, a student in post-secondary education, or a student who has not yet graduated from high school, there are programs and supports in place to help you turn your ideas, innovation, and creativity into a business venture.
The Government of Ontario has several programs for youth under 30 who wish to start their own business. These programs are offered through Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs) across the province. In the Windsor-Essex region, contact the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre.
There are great organizations in your community that can help you learn more about starting your own business. Since 1955, Junior Achievement has been offering youth programs in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. Check out the Resources section below for more information.
St. Clair College and the University of Windsor have resources on-campus that can help you with your business idea and vision. If you are a student at St. Clair College, contact the Genesis Centre. If you are attending the University of Windsor, contact the Entrepreneurship Practice and Innovation (EPI) Centre. Students who have not yet graduated from high school can speak to their school Guidance Counsellor to get more information about entrepreneurship as a possible career choice. For Grade 10 students, your Career Studies teacher can also provide you with more information.
Check out the Entrepreneurship Support Organizations section below for more information on organizations that can assist you from idea to launch to growth.
Read Mylene’s story of entrepreneurship here.
Ready Shaun’s story of entrepreneurship here.
