The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) is celebrating the success of the 2026 Summer Company program, as a new group of ambitious young entrepreneurs transforms innovative ideas into thriving summer businesses across Thunder Bay.
Delivered locally by the Thunder Bay and District Entrepreneur Centre and funded by the Province of Ontario, the Summer Company program gives aspiring entrepreneurs aged 15 to 29 the opportunity to launch and operate their own summer businesses. Participants receive up to $3,000 in start-up funding, along with business coaching, mentorship, and guidance from experienced local business leaders.
This year’s businesses represent a wide range of industries, including drone technology, photography, custom sauna construction, cybersecurity consulting, digital branding, mobile vehicle detailing, and property maintenance.
The 2026 Summer Company entrepreneurs include:
- Aiden – Owner and Operator, NextSight Technology Solutions Inc. – Drone services for agriculture, aerial inspections, and related technology solutions.
- Justin – Owner and Photographer, Mayer Photography & Media – Professional portrait photography.
- Oliver – Owner and Builder, Superior Saunas – Custom outdoor sauna construction.
- Kolamide – Owner, Cybreon Consulting – Cybersecurity consulting, compliance advisory, and security services.
- Cristiano – Owner, Riccio Mobile Detailing – Professional mobile vehicle detailing.
- Alex – Owner and Designer, Moon – Canva websites and digital branding solutions.
- Anh – Owner, NorthLine Detailing – Mobile car detailing services.
- Rydder– Owner and Operator, O’Quinn Lawn and Property Care – Lawn maintenance and seasonal property care services.
“Summer Company gives young entrepreneurs the confidence, skills, and support to transform great ideas into real businesses,” said Jamie Taylor, CEO, Thunder Bay CEDC. “We’re proud to support these talented young business owners as they gain valuable entrepreneurial experience while contributing to our local economy.”
Residents are encouraged to support these local entrepreneurs throughout the summer by following their businesses on social media and choosing local products and services whenever possible.
For more information about the Summer Company program, visit https://gotothunderbay.ca/supportprograms/
