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Hillary Panke (left), Acting Small Business Advisor with Enterprise Renfrew County, addresses those gathered for the Summer Company wrap-up event held at the County Administration Building on August 27. Also speaking at the celebration were Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon and Development and Property Committee Chair James Brose. Looking on were the Summer Company participants (from left) Paige Hodgson, Jazmin Clark, Noah Obrien, Emmanuel Young, Nella Rosendic, Hunter Prince and Minnah Rehan.
RELEASE DATE:
September 8, 2025
The County of Renfrew has celebrated the success and completion of the 2025 Summer Company Program, which saw seven youth launch and grow their businesses with the support of Enterprise Renfrew County.
On August 27, the Summer Company program participants showcased their businesses, sold their products and highlighted their services at the County Administration Building as part of Renfrew County Council, which allowed elected officials and County staff to check out their booths featuring unique business ideas ranging from lawn care and landscaping services to skilled artisans offering distinct, handcrafted products.
County of Renfrew Warden Peter Emon introduced the program participants and their businesses which grew from their own plans and transformed into thriving operations that contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Renfrew County. He noted this initiative not only empowers youth to explore entrepreneurship but also strengthens our local economy by fostering innovation and leadership.
“Congratulations to all of you on your success,” the Warden said. “We look forward to following your entrepreneurship journey and know that you all have bright futures ahead. We commend our young entrepreneurs for their creativity, drive, and commitment to building a brighter future for Renfrew County.”
Elected officials from the students’ home municipalities presented certificates of completion to the young entrepreneurs along with Development and Property Committee Chair James Brose.
“The enthusiasm and dedication shown by these participants are a testament to the potential of our youth,” Chair Brose said. “Through their businesses, they are not only contributing to our local economy but also inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Let's continue to support and encourage these young visionaries as they continue on their entrepreneurial journeys.”
Chair Brose, Warden Emon and Acting Small Business Advisor Hillary Panke extended heartfelt thanks to the Township of McNab/Braeside for their generous sponsorship of the 2025 Summer Company program, an initiative that supports the next generation of young entrepreneurs.
Chair Brose acknowledged the Township's ongoing commitment to youth entrepreneurship and expressed gratitude for their invitation to include this year’s Summer Company participants in the Township’s annual HerbFest vendor market this past July in White Lake, under the Junior Entrepreneur category.
“The vendor market at Herbfest provided and excellent platform for these youth to showcase their products and connect with the local community, helping to foster a spirit of entrepreneurship,” he said.
Congratulations to all participants for successful completion of the program – Noah Obrien – Wisdom By Words (clothing apparel brand); Minnah Rehan – NoorHenna (Henna tattoo service); Paige Hodgson – Paiges Projex (handmade custom crochet products); Emmanuel Young – Manny’s Mowing (lawn care and landscaping services); Nella Rosandic – Nellart Commissions (customized buttons and stickers with her artwork); Hunter Prince – Moose 3D Designs (3D printed products); Jazmin Clark – Sprout Wings (handmade pottery products).
Photo Gallery: Summer Company wrap-up 2025 will appear here on the public site.
The Summer Company program, delivered by Enterprise Renfrew County on behalf of the Ontario Government, is a youth entrepreneurship program for students aged 15-29 years which provides start-up funding, training and mentorship while cultivating essential entrepreneurial skills. The next intake deadline will be May 2026 for the next summer season. Visit www.EnterpriseRenfrewCounty.com for more information.
Enterprise Renfrew County is a non-profit government organization funded by the Government of Ontario, County of Renfrew, Town of Renfrew and the City of Pembroke. Its mandate is to encourage and contribute to the enterprising spirit and economic development of Renfrew County by assisting entrepreneurs with the development of new or existing companies.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Hillary Panke Acting Small Business Advisor, ERC 613-735-7288
Tina Peplinskie Media Relations Coordinator 613-735-7288
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