Established in 2019, the Saugeen Student Start-Up Program (SSUP) provides students in Grades 6-12 with the opportunity to launch their businesses during the summer break. So far, SSUP has supported over 250 students and businesses through funding and engaging training sessions.

This summer, 51 students have initiated 47 diverse businesses such as body scrubs, natural lip balm, traditional Chinese dumplings, homemade crepes, beeswax lunch pouches, freeze-dried candy, horse treats and kits, and other innovative entrepreneurial ventures.

SSUP is a significant element of Saugeen Connects, a partnership formed in 2017. This collaboration involves the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and five municipalities: Brockton, Hanover, Minto, Wellington North, and West Grey, united under the project “Saugeen Connects.” In May 2021, Arran-Elderslie joined as an additional municipal partner, followed by South Bruce in 2022. The goal is to work together to enhance local economic growth, support youth development, aid in business growth and retention, and coordinate efforts to attract immigrants to the area as residents, workers, entrepreneurs, business owners, operators, and investors.

Cheryl Haskett and her husband Greg founded Udderly Ridiculous in 2019. In a short span of time, their products have been featured in 300 retail stores, including Sobey’s, Fortinos, and Unger’s Market. Moreover, The Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life offers 12 on-farm activities and hosts a market showcasing more than 100 Ontario producers.

Throughout the pandemic, Cheryl made a strategic shift to safeguard the brand and create opportunities for education and discussions about agriculture and our food systems. Her dedication to promoting sustainable and immersive tourism resulted in the creation of an award-winning agri-tourism site, recognized with the 2023 Trip Advisors Travellers Choice Award, ranking among the top 10% of attractions worldwide. Cheryl’s initiatives have transformed Udderly Ridiculous into a must-visit destination.

Cheryl and Greg are dedicated to enhancing awareness of agricultural best practices through agri-tourism, while also focusing on the safety and welfare of their animals on their 200-acre farm. By offering educational opportunities, training sessions, and immersive experiences on the farm, they attract tourists to Oxford County, providing enriching experiences that yield long-term advantages for visitors and the rural Oxford community.

Establishing a robust community stands as a key focus for the Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital Foundation (SMGH Foundation). In leading the Building Foundations Project, the foundation aims to tackle important issues such as enhancing the accessibility of affordable housing, inspiring youth to consider careers in skilled trades, and enhancing the capability of rural hospitals to support their communities.

The Building Foundations Project is a distinctive and creative collaboration involving the SMGH Foundation, the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc, and the Construction Technology students at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School (HCCSS).

Students from HCCSS collaborate with the general contractor and different trades to construct six semi-detached homes on land donated to the SMGH Foundation by the Municipality. Upon completion, the proceeds from selling these homes will contribute to acquiring essential diagnostic imaging equipment for the Hospital.