The Summer Company program is funded by the government of Ontario and delivered by the Small Business Centre of Barrie, Simcoe County and Orillia. The program is designed to empower young entrepreneurs aged 15 to 29 by providing them with the resources and support they need to start and run their own summer businesses. Participants receive up to $3,000 in financial assistance, mentorship from experienced business professionals, and access to valuable training and networking opportunities.
The Small Business Centre team is excited to share the companies they had the chance to work with this summer.
Meet Brooke and Her Art
Brooke Gray Lawrence, an artist based in Orillia, Ontario, blends her academic background from her Bachelor of Fine Arts program with her passion for creating emotionally resonant art. Her work draws inspiration from the natural beauty of her hometown and her personal experiences, which have garnered her recognition across Ontario's cottage country. Brooke’s art business reflects her dedication to pushing creative boundaries and making a lasting impact in contemporary art. She offers a diverse range of art services, including original paintings, prints, custom framing, and commissioned pieces tailored to each client's vision. Brooke also collaborates with other artists and organizations, showcasing her work at galleries and art shows.
Learn More About Brooke's Artistic Entrepreneurial Journey
What do you enjoy most about being an entrepreneur?
Being an entrepreneur allows me to freely express my creativity and pursue my vision. I love having the freedom to experiment with different ideas and artistic styles. Building connections with people through my art—whether through commissions, shows, or partnerships—is incredibly fulfilling. Each project offers a new opportunity to grow as an artist and challenge myself. Interacting with my community and sharing my work with a broader audience brings me immense satisfaction. Overall, the blend of personal connection and creative freedom makes entrepreneurship truly fulfilling.
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through your entrepreneurial journey?
I’ve been surprised by how capable I am at problem-solving and developing creative solutions. Managing the balance between creative vision and strategic planning has shown me that I can effectively navigate challenges and continually improve. This experience has given me confidence and enhanced my skills as an entrepreneur.
What’s the best piece of advice you would give to another youth entrepreneur?
My best advice to a youth entrepreneur is to remain true to your vision while remaining flexible and open to new ideas. Accept the unique features of your ideas, look for support, and be prepared to change as you advance.
What do you hope to achieve through the Summer Company program?
I'm hoping to learn useful skills and information from the Summer Company program that will help me develop and expand my business. By establishing connections with mentors and other business owners, I hope to grow my network and improve my strategic planning and marketing skills. In the end, I hope to use the program to strengthen my foundation in business, advance my creative endeavors, and set the stage for long-term success.
Explore Brooke Gray Lawrence's Artwork
To discover more about Brooke Gray Lawrence and her artwork, you can visit her website at www.brookegraylawrence.com. Brooke shares her latest creations and updates on her artistic journey on Instagram, where you can follow her at @brookegraylawrence.
Learn more about the Summer Company program
To learn more about the Summer Company program, reach out to the Small Business Centre of Barrie, Simcoe County & Orillia today at smallbusiness@barrie.caor 705-720-2445.
Invest Barrie can connect businesses, big and small, to the information, connections and support you need to start or grow your business, attract talent and stay competitive. Please reach out to 705-728-9850 or email us atinvest@barrie.ca. You can also follow along and access the latest updates through our social media platforms:
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