Company Program

The cornerstone of Junior Achievement, the JA Company Program sees groups of students work together to operate their own business venture.  Company Program may run in-school or as an after-school activity.

The cornerstone of Junior Achievement, the JA Company Program sees groups of students working together to operate their own business venture.  There are two ways for students to participate in the Company Program:

  • After-school: runs from February to June, hosted on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evening from 6:00-9:00 pm in various locations throughout Edmonton and the surrounding area.  This option is suitable for students in grades 8-12 who are looking for an extracurricular activity and join independently.
  • In-school: teachers provide Company Program as part of their regular class program or host as a club.  This option must be organized by the school or teacher, and students are not able to join independently.

Divided into five phases: Inspire, Unite, Build, Launch, and Achieve, the program allows students to take ownership of their success by giving them the resources necessary to run their business. Companies identify and create a product-based business using market research, create and sell their product; and liquidate their business over the span of 18 weeks.  Students also have the opportunity to participate in exciting events like The West Edmonton Mall Tradeshow and The Alberta Business Hall of Fame.  Students who successfully complete the program are eligible for over $27,000 in awards and scholarships every year.

What to expect:

Program Details:

Level: Grade 8-12

Commitment: 18 weeks

Program Code: Project-based

Phase 1: Inspire

Participants learn that JA Company Program is a life-changing, hands-on experience that aims to inspires them to create an exciting entrepreneurial venture through collaboration.

Key Objectives

  • Get to know each other, including strengths and motivations
  • Collaboratively develop group working norms
  • Consider a variety of possible products and business models
  • Learn about the roles available within the company and identify leadership styles

Phase 2: Unite

Participants unite ideas and people to form the leadership framework, innovative market solution, and business model to achieve the co-created mission.

Key Objectives

  • Understand the criteria for selecting the nature of the business venture, potential mechanisms for funding business ideas and product pitching
  • Establish the details of the student company using the business model canvas and clearly define the proposed value proposition
  • Finalize the mission and establish the organizational structure
  • Establish the department functions and individual responsibilities to the team

Phase 3: Build

Building a new business requires a strong foundation based on planning, strategy and communication.

Key Objectives

  • Create an accountability framework and department work plans
  • Develop and establish Key Performance Indicators (KPI)
  • Quantify start-up capital needs, resources, and break-even point
  • Create the Lean Business Plan

Phase 4: Launch

Successful entrepreneurial ventures are results of efficient production, compelling sales, and accurate metrics.

Key Objectives

  • Implement the strategy defined by the Lean Business Plan and apply department work plans
  • Continue production of product
  • Conduct sales
  • Maintain accurate records

Phase 5: Achieve

Personal potential is realized when individuals take risks, engage in new experiences and collaborate with others, and celebrate the success achieved together.

Key Objectives

  • Understand the steps to close a business
  • Share learning outcomes and successes in a variety of formats
  • Conduct a final status meeting
  • Prepare a Shareholder’s Report

Interested in this program?

Become a volunteer

Want this program in your classroom?

Register my class