NEUSTADT – After a successful sixth summer, Saugeen Connects officials wish to thank the sponsors, participants and contributors who made this summer’s 2025 Student Start-Up Program possible.
SSUP is a funding program aimed at providing the school-aged youth in the Saugeen Connects catchment area, with an opportunity to develop the skills, confidence and entrepreneurial mindset required to operate a small business.
SSUP provides the youth with start-up funding, soft-skills and business training, enabling them to operate successful summer businesses, officials stated in a press release.
Program participant Cash DeBlock, founder of Cash’s Campfire Starters, stated: “I learned how important it is to put yourself out there, even if it feels a bit scary – that’s how you get discovered.”
Fellow entrepreneur Daelyn Darian, who launched Grey Bruce Cinematics, added, “I plan to continue this business as long as I can.”
This year, 50 local youth launched 47 businesses offering a mix of products and services, including handmade jewelry, organic produce, fresh flower arrangements, auto detailing, lawn care, hair styling, babysitting, tutoring, drone filming and more.
The program hosted youth including:
– four youth from Wellington North;
– 15 from Hanover;
– 21 from Minto;
– five from Brockton; and
– five from South Bruce.
“As we celebrate our sixth year, we extend heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who make the Saugeen Student Start Up Program (SSUP) possible.
“Your generous support has provided aspiring youth with meaningful opportunities, resources, and encouragement,” the Saugeen Connects committee stated in a press release.
“Your dedication to education, innovation, and community growth is deeply valued and continues to shape a brighter future. Thank you for being a vital part of the success stories emerging from SSUP.”
Saugeen Connects is an economic development partnership between Brockton, South Bruce, Hanover, Minto, Wellington North, and the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation.
