National JA Stock Market Challenge

Step into what’s next at Future Bound by Junior Achievement, where possibilities are limitless and connections shape tomorrow. This event brings together students, educators, and industry leaders to explore hands-on learning experiences, unlock new career pathways, and gain the skills needed to thrive in the evolving world of work. Prepare to be inspired, empowered, and Future Bound!

The National JA Stock Market Challenge is not simply a stock trading game for young people. Participating teams must successfully apply 21st century skills—such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability—throughout a fast-paced, real-time investment simulation. Participants are challenged to demonstrate financial literacy, strategic decision-making, and risk management as they react to breaking news, analyze market trends, and make rapid-fire trading decisions under pressure all while maximizing their portfolio value. The top 35 teams will compete as finalists at Future Bound.

Winners will be determined by the highest total net worth at the end of the competition. First, second, and third place honors will be awarded. Participants will also have the opportunity to compete for other prestigious awards at Future Bound. Details on these awards will be provided to finalists in mid-May.

Nomination and Participation Process for 2026

1. Intent to Register

JA Area offices must submit an Intent to Register form indicating their plan to submit and register team(s) for Future Bound and the National JA Stock Market Challenge. The deadline to submit this form to JA USA is Friday, November 28, 2025. If more than 35 teams are represented after the 11/28 deadline, qualifying criteria for team and finalist selection will be introduced.

2. Qualifying Criteria & Team Report Submission

If qualifying criteria are introduced, eligible JA Stock Market Challenge teams wishing to be considered must complete the JA Stock Market Challenge Team Report and provide it to their local JA Area office. The Team's report will be reviewed by a panel of independent judges and 35 finalist teams will be selected.

The JA Area will collect these Team Reports and submit them to JA USA no later than Friday, April 24, 2026.
JA Areas may submit up to two (2) JA Stock Market Challenge Team Reports for consideration. Satellite or district offices are considered part of their overarching JA Area and should work collaboratively with that office to determine team participation and eligibility.

3. Eligible Student Teams Must Have:

Been enrolled in high school during the 2025-2026 school year.
A minimum of two (2) and a maximum of four (4) students.
Participated in JA Take Stock in Your Future and follow the JA Learning Experience Implementation Standards for this learning experience (including completing the full curriculum with the required minimum volunteer-lead contact hours).
AND competed in a local JA Stock Market Challenge.
Due to requirements from 2026 Future Bound by JA host Boston University, all student participants must be 18 years of age or younger for the entire duration of Future Bound. Participants are ineligible if they have reached their 19th birthday at any time prior to or during the event dates, June 7-11, 2026.

4. Selection Process:

All submitted materials must be the original work of JA students.
Each JA Area may nominate up to two (2) teams for consideration.
Only JA Area staff may nominate student teams for consideration.
For each nomination, by Friday, April 24, the JA Area must:
- Complete the online nomination form.
- Upload the team report in PDF format (must follow provided template).

Competition Timeline:

April 24: Deadline for JA Areas nominate companies and teams for national competitions
- BU permission forms due with nomination
- JA Areas may nominate up to two (2) teams for JA Stock Market Challenge consideration
April 30: JA USA announces JA SMC and JA Titan finalists
May 1: Deadline for JA Areas to submit registration details for JA SMC and JA Titan finalists
May 7: Deadline for JA SMC and JA Titan event registration and JA USA permission forms due for finalists and chaperones
May 19-20: Mandatory Chaperone Orientation (two options)
June 7 – 11: Future Bound by JA in Boston, MA

View complete competition requirements, guidelines, and criteria here: National JA Stock Market Challenge - Competition Guidelines and Criteria

Questions?
Please contact competitions@ja.org

Future Bound Event Overview and FAQ

Related Events

Future Bound by Junior Achievement

Where: Boston, MA

Step into what’s next at Future Bound by Junior Achievement, where possibilities are limitless and connections shape tomorrow. This event brings together students, educators, and industry leaders to explore hands-on learning experiences, unlock new career pathways, and gain the skills needed to thrive in the evolving world of work. Prepare to be inspired, empowered, and Future Bound!