There is a new deadline for those interested in applying for the Summer Company program.

The deadline to submit an application is now May 20, instead of April 30.

For the eighth year in a row, students between the ages of 15 and 29 will have a chance to run their own business for the summer, with financial support of up to $3,000  from the Ontario government.

In addition, business training, coaching, and guidance are provided to successful applicants by the Muskoka Enterprise Centre.

In the past, Summer Company businesses have made a valuable contribution

to the Muskoka economy, offering a wide range of products and services

including painting, landscaping, photography, custom designed clothing, paintball, barging services, construction, computer repair/web design, and food

concessions.

Students start by preparing a comprehensive business plan to identify the goals of their business and how they will achieve them.

They do market research to identify who their potential customers are, and devise a plan for how to promote their business to these customers. Part of the business plan identifies their competition, and outlines a strategy for how they will compete in the marketplace.

They also have to price their products and services so that all their costs are covered and they can pay themselves at the end of the day.

The application also includes a detailed start-up budget and cash flow forecast, which will be reconciled with actual income and expenses as the summer goes on.

Individual mentors are also available that the students can call if they have questions or need help with the business.

Interested individuals can visit www.summercompany.ca or call the Muskoka Enterprise Centre at 646-9021.