Left to Right: Maddie Calder, Don Bourne, Tahlia Feldman, Caleb Benoit, Owen Long, Dominic Williams, Brooke Girdwood, Stef Richardson, Tim Newton, and Sydney Parvin. (Photo: Victoria Mae Photography)
Summer Company – Meet the 2025 Participants
The South Georgian Bay Small Business Enterprise Centre is excited to welcome a new cohort of ambitious students as they launch their ventures and dive into the world of entrepreneurship.
These seven driven individuals are participants in Summer Company, Ontario’s flagship youth entrepreneurship program for students aged 15–29. The program offers hands-on business training, one-on-one mentorship, and up to $3,000 in start-up funding.
We’re proud to introduce the 2025 Summer Company participants and invite you to connect with them — ask questions, show your support, and explore their products and services.
Brooke Girdwood – Pathways Tutoring Company
Pathways Tutoring Company helps students stay on track and discover their unique path to academic success. Founded by Brooke Girdwood, a future educator currently completing her Bachelor of Education at the University of Ottawa, Pathways offers personalized academic support grounded in a strong understanding of today’s classroom needs. Specializing in literacy and numeracy for students in grades K–12, Pathways builds the foundation students need to thrive. In addition to one-on-one sessions, the company provides accessible online resources for both students and parents to support learning at home and ease the transition into a new school year.
To learn how Pathways Tutoring can support your child’s success, contact Brooke at pathwaystutoringco@gmail.com.
Owen Long – A Bit of Bytes
Owen Long, a tech enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, is the founder of A Bit of Bytes, a local service offering fast and affordable device repairs. After several summers working with electronics, Owen is now bringing his skills to the residents of Wasaga Beach and surrounding areas. With convenient in-home service calls, A Bit of Bytes makes it easy to fix laptops, tablets, PCs, and more—without the hassle of leaving your home.
To book a repair, call 705-352-3149 or email bitofbytes25@gmail.com.
Maddie Calder – Maddie’s Swim School
Maddie’s Swim School offers fun and personalized swim lessons that help swimmers of all ages feel confident, safe, and capable in the water. Founded by Maddie Calder, the school specializes in private and small group sessions tailored to each swimmer’s comfort level and goals. Whether held in Maddie’s backyard pool or a location that works best for you, each lesson emphasizes trust, technique, and enjoyment. With a calm and encouraging approach, Maddie’s Swim School turns nervous swimmers into strong, happy ones—because everyone deserves to feel confident and free in the water.
Swim strong, start young. Contact Maddie at mcalder2604@gmail.com or 705-816-2604.
Caleb Benoit – Caleb’s Cuts
Owned and operated by Caleb Benoit, Caleb’s Cuts offers top-quality lawn mowing and landscaping services in Collingwood. Known for reliable, detail-oriented work, Caleb ensures each property looks its best all season long. From regular lawn maintenance to garden tidy-ups, Caleb’s Cuts delivers professional results with a personal touch. Many satisfied customers already trust Caleb to enhance their outdoor spaces—now it’s your turn.
Contact the team today at 705-446-5698 or email calebscuts@outlook.com to schedule your service. Experience the difference of professional care with Caleb’s Cuts – where your lawn is their passion!
Tahlia Feldman – Wisp Lashes
Wisp Lashes, founded by Tahlia Feldman, specializes in customized lash services designed to enhance your natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a subtle lift or full-volume glam, each set is tailored to suit your features, preferences, and lifestyle. With a focus on comfort, quality, and confidence, Wisp is your go-to studio for lashes that feel as good as they look.
Ready for flawless lashes? To book your appointment, call or text (705) 888-5488 and follow along on Instagram @wisp.colashes.
Dominic Williams – Wasaga Beach Lawn Care
Dominic Williams, founder of Wasaga Beach Lawn Care, is a high school student and young entrepreneur offering professional, reliable lawn mowing and yard maintenance services. Driven by a passion for business and customer service, Dominic is known for being punctual, hardworking, and detail-oriented. Thanks to support from this program, he has invested in new equipment to launch his business and better serve his community.
To book a service, call or text 705-994-6070.
Sydney Parvin – Steep & Snug
Founded by Sydney Parvin, Steep & Snug is a cozy brand created to bring warmth, charm, and intention to your tea and coffee rituals. Each tea cozy is designed to fit teapots, French presses, and carafes of all sizes—keeping your brew hot while adding a touch of style to your space. Inspired by slow mornings, sustainable living, and timeless design, Steep & Snug is made for comfort lovers who appreciate the little things.
To place an order, contact 647-546-5795 or syd.parvin72@gmail.com. Etsy shop coming soon!
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Follow the Small Business Enterprise Centre’s social channels and blog for access to upcoming business features. Entrepreneurship is more alive than ever, and we are anticipating big things from this year’s successful Summer Company participants.
Instagram: @sgb_sbec
Facebook: @SGBSmallBusinessEnterpriseCentre
More questions?
Stef Richardson, Digital Strategist and Event/Program Advisor
105 Hurontario St, Collingwood
srichardson@collingwood.ca
705-351-3309