National JA Stock Market Challenge

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2026 Future Bound by JA Agenda

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.

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. In addition to the National JA Stock Market Challenge, 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.

Who?

Eligible Student Teams must have:

Been enrolled in high school during the 2025-2026 school year.
A minimum of 2 and a maximum of 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.

Selection Process:

Each JA Area must submit an Intent to Register form by November 28, 2025.
- This form simply asks if your JA Area intends to send a team to the national competition. Areas who do not submit prior to the deadline may not be eligible to send teams to Future Bound.
- Should there be more than 35 teams represented after the 11/28 deadline, qualifying criteria will be introduced.
Each JA Area may send up to two (2) teams to compete in the National JA Stock Market Challenge.
JA Staff must then register their teams (as reflected in their Intent to Register form) prior to Friday, April 24, including finalized team names and all competitor and chaperone details.

Competition Timeline:

May 5: Finalists Announced

May 6: Participant Registration Deadline

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 Meg Chapman at meg.chapman@ja.org

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Future Bound by Junior Achievement

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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!