SCAP student takes third

The McGuinty government announced the winners of Ontario’s sixth-annual Secondary School Business Plan Competition last month at ceremonies held in Kenora, Ajax, Niagara Falls, and Renfrew.
“[The] ceremonies showcase the creativity, innovation, and dedication of Ontario’s future business leaders,” said Small Business and Entrepreneurship minister Harinder Takhar.
“Programs like this one provide our young people with valuable business skills and experience, creating a culture of entrepreneurship among Ontario’s youth,” he added.
Felicia Schmutz of Emo, who attends the Sturgeon Creek Alternative Program (SCAP), was the regional winner from Northern Ontario and the third runner-up in the provincial competition, earning $1,500.
Amy Noyes of North Cobalt was runner-up in the regional competition, receiving $750 in educational bursaries, while Jessica Boaro of Powassan took third-place regional honours, taking home $500.
The team of Danielle Daniels, Jessy Lepine, and Rebecca Potts of Beamsville was the overall provincial winner, earning a combined $2,500 in educational bursaries for their first-place finishes in both the provincial and western regional competitions.
“The McGuinty government understands the challenges of starting and growing a small business,” said Takhar.
“We offer a number of programs that encourage our youth to pursue entrepreneurship as a career choice.
“It’s our goal to provide all Ontarians with the support and resources they need to open a business, create jobs, and secure the continued economic prosperity of Ontario.”
As part of the Ontario government’s initiative to promote youth entrepreneurship, 39 Small Business Enterprise Centres in Ontario worked with 188 secondary schools across the province to co-ordinate the local business plan competitions.
Students also have the opportunity to implement their business plan through Ontario’s “Summer Company” program, which opened for applications on Nov. 25.