Find out all about JA's Company Program young entrepreneurs and shop the latest student-led companies!

On March 16th, JA Central Ontario hosted our annual Company Program Trade Show. This online event, supported by RSM, brought together the latest cohort of Company Program students to showcase their unique products and services. Representatives from 40 student-led businesses were joined by expert RSM judges and members of the public, who learnt all about their incredible Company Program journeys.

We also launched the prestigious People's Choice Award - members of the public can check out all the incredible student companies and vote for their favourite. The winners will be announced on May 18th at VentureON, the celebration that marks the end of this year's Company Program.

What is JA Central Ontario's Company Program?

Company Program is an after-school program that empowers high school students to start and run their very own business. With the help of a student group and volunteer mentors, students create, manage, and liquidate a business in 18 weeks. Through Company Program, students not only learn how to run a business - they also meet new friends, connect with mentors, network with professionals and gain the skills and experience to shape their futures.

About JA Central Ontario

JA Central Ontario envisions a world in which young people have the skillset and mindset to build thriving communities. They want to make sure all young people are economically empowered with the skills, confidence and networks to shape the future.

As a youth-centred charity, JA Central Ontario works together with a dedicated network of volunteers, partners and educators to deliver immersive learning in work readiness, financial health, entrepreneurship and more. JA students benefit from mentorship and real-world experiences, transforming their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and aspirations as they build their futures.

JA Central Ontario impacts students in Halton, Peel, Toronto, York, Durham and Simcoe regions. They are part of one of the world’s most-impactful youth-serving social good organizations – JA Worldwide – and they work closely with our national network, JA Canada.