Returning for its fourth year, Saugeen Connects announced the Saugeen Student Start-Up Program yesterday.
SSUP is a funding program aimed at providing school-aged youth in the Saugeen Connects catchment area with an opportunity to develop the skills, confidence, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to run a small business.
SSUP gives the youth start-up funding, soft-skills and business training.
This year, Saugeen Connects received more than 75 applicants to the program, as students from across the Saugeen Region in Grades 6 to 12 pitched their business ideas to the Saugeen Connects team.
This summer, 58 new businesses created and operated by local youth, were accepted and launched through the SSUP.
Saugeen Connects is an economic development partnership that includes Arran-Elderslie, Brockton, South Bruce, Hanover, Minto, Wellington North, West Grey, and the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation.
The summer companies include various businesses within the agricultural, retail, service, manufacturing, and hospitality sectors.