The Junior Achievement (JA) Company Program has been a transformative experience for high school students across the nation. Personally, I've witnessed how JA has ignited the entrepreneurial spirit in young minds, providing them with the opportunity to start their own businesses and learn invaluable skills.

For many, the JA Company Program is more than just an educational initiative; it is a gateway to discovering one's potential and fostering a sense of responsibility, innovation, leadership, and teamwork. However, the recent decision to discontinue the South East Texas (SET) Company Program is a major setback for aspiring young entrepreneurs in the region, depriving them of the chance to showcase their talents and hard work on a prestigious platform.

Even with the recent accomplishments at the Junior Achievement Future Bound 2026 Company of The Year Competition  — where the JA South East Texas region took home TWO spots on the podium — the company program is on its path to discontinuation. It truly does not make sense for the absence of a program that has been historically one of the most successful with 10+ podium spots at every national competition over the past 5 years.

The absence of this program leaves a significant void in experiential learning opportunities, particularly in a region like South East Texas, which is ripe with potential yet requires strong educational initiatives to channel young talent. Additionally, the JA Company Program continues to create its impact GLOBALLY, impacting students in over 100 countries.  Yet it seems that this impact is coming to an end in the South East Texas region. To rid this opportunity for young minds is a decision that contradicts JA SET's own words to "inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy". 

If you want to learn more about the JA SET company program and the impacts it has made on students who have participated please refer to this website: https://southeasttexas.ja.org/programs/opportunity/ja-company-program-experience-by-ja-se-texas

We urge the stakeholders, including educational institutions, local businesses, and community leaders, to collaborate and bring back the Junior Achievement South East Texas Company Program. By doing so, we can ensure that today's youth are equipped with the skills, confidence, and motivation they need to succeed in the future.

Sign this petition to advocate for the reinstatement of a vital program that inspires and shapes tomorrow's innovators and leaders.