Saugeen Student Start-Up Program
Saugeen Student Start-Up Program
Established in 2019, the Saugeen Student Start-Up Program (SSUP) provides students in Grades 6-12 with the opportunity to launch their businesses during the summer break. So far, SSUP has supported over 250 students and businesses through funding and engaging training sessions. This summer, 51 students have initiated 47 diverse businesses such as body scrubs, natural lip balm, traditional Chinese dumplings, homemade crepes, beeswax lunch pouches, freeze-dried candy, horse treats and kits, and other innovative entrepreneurial ventures.
SSUP is a significant element of Saugeen Connects, a partnership formed in 2017. This collaboration involves the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and five municipalities: Brockton, Hanover, Minto, Wellington North, and West Grey, united under the project “Saugeen Connects.” In May 2021, Arran-Elderslie joined as an additional municipal partner, followed by South Bruce in 2022. The goal is to work together to enhance local economic growth, support youth development, aid in business growth and retention, and coordinate efforts to attract immigrants to the area as residents, workers, entrepreneurs, business owners, operators, and investors.