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Co-operative Education

Entrepreneurial co-op

Interested in developing your own business as a co-op work term? An entrepreneurial co-op could be the perfect fit.

How the program works

You can choose to complete one of the following for a four-month period (starting in September, January or May):

  • work for clients on a self-employed or contract basis, 
  • develop a product of your own design or provide a service, or
  • develop a business venture.

Requirements

Before your work term

1. Get in touch with your co-op coordinator to get your idea approved. 

2. Submit the following to your co-op coordinator:

3. Sign the Entrepreneurial Co-op Agreement, outlining the expectations of the program.

4. Apply for funding before or during your work term using the SF-ELF Wage Subsidy Application for a chance at a $5,000 grant.

Depending on your program area and concept, your program may approve your idea and you'll be formally registered in a work term. Or, you may need approval from the Coast Capital Savings Innovation Centre (CCSIC) before acceptance and registration of your work term. 

During your work term

  • when you start your work term, complete the learning objectives form in the Competency Assessment Module in the co-op portal
  • complete the requirements specified by your faculty (contact your coordinator for details)
  • mid-way through your work term, submit your mid-term competency assessment form in the co-op portal
  • participate in a work site visit with your co-op coordinator

After your work term

  • submit your final competency assessment form
  • complete a regular work term report and any other requirements specified by your faculty
  • ensure your mentor submits a final competency assessment form

How to apply

Entrepreneurial co-op is available in all programs. Meet with your co-op coordinator if you're interested in developing an idea into an entrepreneurial work term. 

Get support

The Coast Capital Savings Innovation Centre (CCSIC) provides tools, expertise and a dedicated space on campus for entrepreneurs to develop business concepts from idea to incubator-ready. It's the place to start for anyone considering an entrepreneurial work term. Support is available to students in any program.