Junior Achievement of Arizona is thrilled to announce the JA Social Innovation Challenge, a nationwide competition that encourages students to tackle social issues through creative and impactful solutions. From environmental sustainability to social inclusion, the projects can reflect a diverse range of solutions that address real-world challenges.

The finalists selected from this pool of exceptional projects will have the opportunity to present their ideas to members of Congress at the upcoming National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS) on June 9-13, 2024 in Washington, D.C. This event will provide a platform for networking, collaboration, and recognition of the innovative solutions developed by these young changemakers.

“Junior Achievement of Arizona is proud to witness the creativity and passion exhibited by the students in this year’s Social Innovation Challenge,” said Katherine Cecala, President of Junior Achievement of Arizona. “It is heartening to see young minds channeling their energy towards addressing social challenges and contributing to a better future.”

 

Key Highlights of the JA Social Innovation Challenge

  • Diverse Participation: Students from various educational backgrounds and regions can showcase their commitment to making a positive impact on society.
  • Real-world Problem Solving: Projects can address a wide spectrum of global challenges, demonstrating a keen understanding of societal issues.
  • Skills Development: This is an opportunity for students to enhance their critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills.
  • Mentorship: Students can receive guidance from industry professionals passionate about social change.
  • Networking: There are plenty of opportunities for students to connect with like-minded peers and build a network for future endeavors.
  • Travel: The top 10 teams will be invited to compete at the JA National Student Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. June 9-13, 2024.

 

Eligibility and Submission Details

  • Submissions are open from April 22 – May 3, 2024.
  • Competitors must have participated in JA Be Entrepreneurial, JA Entrepreneurial Mindset, or JA Company Program during the 2023-2024 school year.
  • Only JA staff may register student companies for consideration. JA companies wishing to be considered must provide us with their JA Social Innovation Challenge deck and commercial/video.
  • If selected as a finalist, a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 students are allowed to represent their student company at the virtual JA National Student Leadership Summit.
  • For complete competition requirements and criteria, view the 2024 Competition Guidelines and Criteria: JA Social Innovation Challenge.

 

About Junior Achievement of Arizona

Junior Achievement of Arizona is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that equips Arizona students to succeed in work and life by giving them the knowledge and skills they need to manage their money, plan for their future, and make smart academic, career, and economic choices. Since 1957, Junior Achievement of Arizona has taught kids kindergarten through high school about financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship. The organization’s hands-on, age-appropriate programs are delivered by more than 9,500 corporate and community volunteers each year. Junior Achievement of Arizona reached approximately 170,000 students in the 2022-2023 school year. Follow @JAArizona on social media or visit jaaz.org/resources for more free online educational tools.