Haldimand County Economic Development recognizes young entrepreneurs

As Ontario celebrates Small Business Month in October, Haldimand County is proud to spotlight three young entrepreneurs who turned ambition into action through the Summer Company Plus program.

Offered locally through the Brantford-Brant Business Resource Centre (BRC), Summer Company Plus provides youth aged 15–29 with hands-on experience in launching and running their own businesses. Participants receive up to $3,000 in funding to support their businesses and gain practical skills - from marketing and customer service to financial management and inventory control.

This year, three driven students from Haldimand County stood out as shining examples of what young entrepreneurs can achieve:

• Abigail Letendre of Caledonia launched Glossed’n Glazed Nails, where she offers custom, one-of-a-kind nail designs with a strong emphasis on nail health and strength. Beyond honing her entrepreneurial skills, Abby gained valuable insights into the power of networking and the role of the Chamber of Commerce in supporting local businesses.
• Hayley Werbeski, also of Caledonia, founded Lash Lab by Hayley, specializing in lash extensions and lash lift and tints, Hayley offers services to help enhance natural beauty. This summer she gained the confidence and tools needed to bring her vision to life - transforming a dream into a thriving business.
• Lotus Drayton of York created Art Connect Media, a digital marketing company focused on helping helping art-focused organizations strengthen their digital presence by combining creativity and strategy.

All three participants successfully completed the program and are continuing to operate their businesses through the school year, with plans of turning entrepreneurship into full-time careers after graduation.

“Summer Company Plus is an excellent opportunity for students who want to learn how to start their own business and explore a future in entrepreneurship,” said Lidy Romanuk, Manager of Economic Development and Tourism. “We’re so proud of the students in Haldimand County who have taken part in the program and can’t wait to see more get involved in the years ahead.”

“Through their hard work and creativity, this year’s students have shown how the entrepreneurial spirit thrives in Haldimand County” said Natalie Walker, Small Business Consultant of the Brantford-Brant BRC. “Each student turned an idea into something real – a business, a skillset and a sense of pride that will carry them forward long after the program ends”.

As part of its 2025 workplan, the Business Development and Planning Advisory Committee (BDAPAC) continues to champion youth entrepreneurship through programs like Summer Company Plus. As an advisory committee of Council, this initiative reflects BDAPAC’s continued commitment to encouraging business growth, nurturing emerging entrepreneurs, and contributing to a strong and sustainable local economy.

Students interested in applying for the 2026 Summer Company Plus program are encouraged to follow the Business Haldimand Facebook page for updates.