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:
- Engineering & Computer Science students - Entrepreneurial Work Term Proposal
- Business students - Lean Canvas for business students
- Students in all other co-op programs - Lean Canvas
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.