Summer Launch seeks to create engaged youth that find innovative solutions to respond to community issues or opportunities, use entrepreneurial approaches in everyday living, and are empowered to spread this knowledge amongst their peer groups. This program provides the opportunity for students to start their own business, with the ongoing support of the program coordinator through one-on-one conversation, bi-weekly check-ins, workshops, and more!
Summer Launch Application 2019
Summer Launch Media and Personal Information Release
Application Process
Applicants to Summer Launch must:
- Be continuing studies in grades 8-12 at a school in Antigonish or Guysborough counties
- Live and operate their business in Antigonish or Guysborough counties
Applications are available on the program’s website, www.summerlaunch.ca. Applicants can choose to submit their completed application forms, and supporting documents, electronically via email or by mailing a hard copy to the address listed on the application form. All candidates will be notified of their application status within one week of the application deadline. The Innovation and Enterprise Centre will only accept applicants who have viable business ideas and who would benefit from participating in this program.
Application Evaluation Criteria
Applications to Summer Launch will be evaluated on the following criteria:
- Complete and timely submission of application
- Indication of time spent preparing the business idea and draft plan
- Viability of the proposed idea (i.e., high likelihood of success)
- Willingness to attend all sessions and take part in all elements of the program
Types of Businesses Permitted:
Applicants may choose one of two business types to work on as part of Summer Launch:
- Sole proprietorships
- Partnerships
Deliverables of Participants:
Summer Launch participants will submit the following as part of their program:
- Workshop items as directed
- Bi-weekly logs
- End of program reflection
The Summer Launch coordinator will conduct one “on-site” meeting with each participant to view their business operation and progress.
Program Element – Workshops:
One day-long workshop will be provided to the students in an effort to broaden student exposure to entrepreneurship and its implications for day to day life. This workshop will be delivered on a Saturday in May. This workshop will run for approximately 4 hours (10am-2:00pm) with a short lunch break. Workshop Topics:
- The Entrepreneur and the Entrepreneurial Process
- Business Model Canvas/Lean Canvas
- Budgeting and Financing
- Marketing, Customer Service, and Professionalism
Program Element – Mentorship and Experience Sharing:
Throughout the program participants will be able to network and speak with other participants and entrepreneurs in the Antigonish and Guysborough area.
Program Element – Assistance:
Grant: Participants will apply to have some of their start-up costs covered by a grant of $250. Completion Award: Participants who successfully complete all elements of the program, attend each workshop or session, and fulfill program requirements will receive a bursary of $250. This will be released after the final wrap-up and reflect event. Important: In the event of a partnership, the partners will receive one grant of $250 to spend on the business. Upon completion, the partners will also receive a $250 completion award to be split between partners.
Articles about Summer Launch:
2018:
Participants:
2018 Summer Celebration 2018 Workshop
2017:
2017 Participants 2017 Workshop 2017 Participants at Farmers’ Market
Contact Information:
Please contact the StFX Extension Innovation and Enterprise Centre for additional information on Summer Launch
Paula Brophy pbrophy@stfx.ca (902) 867-2029