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The Next Great Business Idea Could Be Sitting in a High School Classroom 

What happens when students are challenged to think like entrepreneurs, solve real-world problems, and pitch their ideas to business leaders? 

The answer was on full display at Junior Achievement’s recent student entrepreneurship competitions, where talented young innovators took center stage to present their business concepts, showcase their brands, and compete for top honors. 

The atmosphere was electric as student teams confidently pitched their ideas before panels of judges and industry professionals, demonstrating not only creativity and business acumen, but also the communication and leadership skills needed to succeed in today’s economy. These young entrepreneurs did an outstanding job representing their brands and pitching their products. Thank you to everyone who shopped and supported their businesses throughout the event. 

As part of Junior Achievement’s programs, students are immersed in real-world business challenges that connect classroom learning to authentic experiences. Participants were challenged to apply entrepreneurial thinking, identify opportunities, develop solutions, and present compelling business cases—all while thinking like founders and future business leaders. 

Throughout the competition, students showcased impressive market research, financial planning, branding strategies, and growth plans. Their presentations reflected months of critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving, proving that innovation has no age requirement. 

For many students, the experience was more than competition. It was an opportunity to build confidence, sharpen public speaking skills, and gain valuable feedback from business professionals. Standing before a room of judges and peers, students demonstrated poise and professionalism that rivaled seasoned entrepreneurs. 

The event also highlighted the power of partnerships between education and industry. By bringing business leaders into the classroom experience, Junior Achievement helps students understand how the skills they are developing today can translate into future careers, entrepreneurial ventures, and economic success. 

Several teams earned special recognition for their outstanding achievements: 

• Best Annual Report: Think Safe – Marjory Stoneman Douglas 

• Best Commercial: Comfort Critters – Everglades 

• Best Trade Booth: Motivate – NSU University School 

• Best Pitch: Think Safe – Marjory Stoneman Douglas 

• Company of the Year: Think Safe – Marjory Stoneman Douglas 

A special congratulations goes to the JA Fellows team from Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Think Safe, which has earned the opportunity to advance to Future Bound at Boston University. Congratulations to their outstanding teacher, Mitch Albert, and the entire Think Safe team on this incredible accomplishment. 

While winners were ultimately selected, the true victory was the growth displayed by every student who participated. Their ideas, determination, and confidence served as a powerful reminder that the next great business idea—and the next generation of innovators—may already be sitting in a South Florida classroom. 

Through experiences like these, Junior Achievement continues to inspire students to think bigger, dream bolder, and discover what is possible when entrepreneurship meets opportunity. 

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Business leaders, financial professionals, educators, and community advocates recently gathered at JA World for the annual Financial Literacy Breakfast hosted by Debt.com and Consolidated Credit. The event brought together organizations and individuals who share a commitment to helping people build stronger financial futures and highlighted the importance of financial literacy in creating healthy, thriving communities. 

For decades, Debt.com and Consolidated Credit have helped consumers regain control of their finances. Equally important to their mission is preventing financial challenges before they begin by promoting financial education and empowering individuals with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. 

The breakfast served as a forum for meaningful conversations around financial wellness, economic empowerment, and the collective responsibility businesses and community leaders share in preparing future generations for financial success. 

As longtime partners of Junior Achievement of South Florida, Debt.com and Consolidated Credit chose JA World as the setting for the event, providing attendees with an opportunity to experience firsthand how JA brings financial literacy to life for students across South Florida. Guests learned more about JA’s immersive learning experiences, where young people gain practical money management skills, explore career opportunities, and develop the confidence needed to navigate their financial futures. 

“Junior Achievement’s real-world learning model helps young people connect financial principles to everyday life,” said Howard Dvorkin, CPA, Chairman of Debt.com and Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame Laureate. “When families and students learn together, it strengthens communities and helps prevent the financial challenges so many adults face later on.” 

At a time when nearly eight in ten American adults carry personal debt, the event reinforced the growing need for financial education at every stage of life. It also highlighted the powerful role that partnerships between businesses, nonprofits, educators, and community leaders can play in creating lasting impact. 

Through their continued support of Junior Achievement, Debt.com and Consolidated Credit are helping ensure that young people gain the financial knowledge, confidence, and decision-making skills needed to achieve economic success. The annual Financial Literacy Breakfast was a meaningful reminder that when organizations come together around a shared mission, stronger futures are possible for individuals, families, and entire communities. 

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What if the next successful entrepreneur is already sitting in a South Florida classroom? 

Students from McArthur High School and Charles W. Flanagan High School put that question to the test during the 3DE of Junior Achievement’s 10X Cardone Pitch-Off, where they transformed creative ideas into real business concepts and pitched them before a panel of business leaders. 

The competition challenged students to think like entrepreneurs—identifying opportunities, developing products, building business plans, and confidently presenting their ideas to judges. Their professionalism, creativity, and poise proved that innovation has no age limit. 

Among the standout teams was BeadznThreadz, whose winning pitch earned the team first place and a $3,000 prize. Colorful Craftworks also impressed judges with its entrepreneurial vision and earned second place honors. 

While awards were presented, true success was the confidence students gained through the experience. By combining classroom learning with real-world business challenges, 3DE helps students develop critical skills in communication, problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership. 

The energy in the room was undeniable, but even more impressive was the talent on display. Events like the 10X Cardone Pitch-Off remind us that the next great business idea—and the next generation of entrepreneurs—may already be sitting in our local high schools. 

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From Exploration to Employment: Celebrating the Career Bound Class of 2026

Applause echoed throughout JA World as 377 Career Bound graduates from 13 South Florida schools crossed the stage, celebrating the completion of an eight-month journey focused on career exploration, workforce readiness, and personal growth. Surrounded by proud families, educators, mentors, and business partners, students were recognized not only for completing the program, but for the confidence and determination they developed along the way. 

Throughout the year, students participated in business case challenges, executive-led job shadow experiences, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on workforce development activities designed to prepare them for success beyond high school. The graduation ceremony provided an opportunity to reflect on the many moments that shaped their journey. 

One of the most memorable experiences came during a financial literacy session at Junior Achievement when entrepreneur Angelo Silva of the Link School of Business shared his personal story. Speaking candidly about a personal struggle and the challenges he faced throughout his life and career, Angelo inspired students with his message of perseverance and success. His journey from overcoming obstacles to building a multimillion-dollar company reminded students that challenges do not define their future—how they respond to them does. 

Students were also deeply impacted by their experiences with the Crockett Foundation, a valued Career Bound business partner that shares JA’s commitment to preparing young people for future success. During site visits and business case challenge presentations, the Crockett Foundation team provided thoughtful feedback, mentorship, and encouragement that left a lasting impression on students. When judges struggled to select winners, the Foundation went above and beyond by recognizing second-place teams with gift cards from their own organization, a gesture that demonstrated their genuine investment in every student’s success. 

As graduates accepted their certificates, they celebrated more than the completion of a program. They celebrated new skills, stronger confidence, meaningful relationships, and a clearer vision for the future. For many, the next step includes participating in paid summer internships where they will continue building real-world experience and workplace skills. 

The excitement inside JA World was a powerful reminder of what happens when students are surrounded by caring mentors, supportive partners, and opportunities to discover their potential. Congratulations to the Career Bound Class of 2026—we can’t wait to see what comes next.

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Space Coast Credit Union supports Junior Achievement’s Career Discovery Park

MELBOURNE, Fla. (May 29, 2026) – As part of its continued commitment to education and financial literacy through its Partners in Purpose program, Space Coast Credit Union (SCCU) partnered with Junior Achievement of South Florida to support JA Career Discovery Park, an immersive, high-tech, hands-on simulation facility where eighth graders explore careers, manage budgets and build financial literacy skills on Thursday, May 28.

Previously, SCCU presented a $25,000 donation to support Junior Achievement of South Florida in support of financial education and youth empowerment programs throughout the community.

“Today’s students need more than information, they need experiences that help them see what’s possible for their future,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida. “By supporting JA Career Discovery Park and volunteering alongside our students, Space Coast Credit Union is helping young people explore careers, practice making real-world financial decisions, develop workplace skills and build the confidence to pursue their goals.”

JA Career Discovery Park brings together industry leaders to create immersive, hands-on experiences through interactive simulations and industry-inspired storefronts that bring careers to life. With the support of SCCU and JA volunteers, the program helped students build real-world skills in work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy to prepare them for future success.

“Having the opportunity to share our knowledge and help students explore real career paths reinforces the purpose behind our program,” said Joelle Hahn, SVP of Marketing at Space Coast Credit Union and leader of the Partners in Purpose program. “We’re proud to volunteer with Junior Achievement of South Florida and connect with students in meaningful ways that help inspire confidence as they explore future careers.”

Junior Achievement of South Florida is one of SCCU’s nonprofit partners under its Partners in Purpose program that aligns volunteerism, corporate giving and nonprofit partnerships to create lasting community impact. Through this partnership, SCCU supports initiatives that promote financial literacy, military and first responders and coastline protection across the communities it serves.

For more information about Space Coast Credit Union and its community initiatives, visit sccu.com/community.

About Junior Achievement of South Florida

Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA) empowers young people to own their economic success and build brighter futures. Through innovative, hands-on programs focused on financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship, JA connects students to real-world learning experiences that prepare them for success in school, work, and life. Signature experiences including JA BizTown® and JA Career Discovery Park® inspire students to explore careers, develop essential life skills, and engage directly with the business community.

Last year, JA delivered more than 70,000 student experiences across Broward and South Palm Beach counties with the support of over 7,100 corporate and community volunteers.

About Space Coast Credit Union

Space Coast Credit Union (SCCU) is state-chartered with headquarters in Melbourne, Fla., since 1951. With over $9 billion in assets, SCCU serves more than 707,000 members in 34 counties, with 70 branches along Florida’s east coast. The Credit Union offers competitive rates on auto and home loans and credit cards as well as free checking and savings accounts. SCCU provides a service delivery network featuring nationwide ATMs, member service call centers, 24/7 online access, and secure mobile banking. The Credit Union is committed to providing comprehensive financial protection to its members with cost-effective, convenient products and services. SCCU creates value in cooperative ownership through honest people, trusted products, and time valued. For more information, visit sccu.com.

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Opening Doors to Independence 

There are days that feel different the moment they begin—days filled with possibility, pride, and purpose. 

At Junior Achievement of South Florida, one of those days came to life as we welcomed students from Lighthouse of Broward to JA BizTown. 

From the moment they arrived, the energy was undeniable. JA BizTown buzzed with excitement as students stepped into a world built just for them—a place where careers come alive, confidence grows, and every child has a role to play. But this day carried something even deeper. 

Every student was empowered to participate. To belong. To thrive. 

At JA, we are committed to serving all children, from all walks of life—and this experience was a powerful reflection of that promise. For Lighthouse of Broward students, their families, and the organization itself, it was more than a visit. It was a moment of connection, inclusion, and discovery. 

Inside JA BizTown, students explored careers, interacted with peers, and embraced new challenges with enthusiasm and determination. You could see it in their smiles, hear it in their conversations, and feel it in the pride they carried as they stepped into each role. 

Because at the heart of it all is something every child deserves: the opportunity to envision a life of independence. 

This day shone a bright light on what’s possible—showing students that their skills, talents, and aspirations can lead them anywhere they choose to go. It reinforced a simple but powerful truth: there is a place for everyone in the world of work. 

This wasn’t just a day at JA BizTown; it was a life-changing, perspective-shifting experience—one that inspired confidence, sparked ambition, and opened doors to futures filled with possibility. 

Be part of moments like this. Supporting JA means supporting every child across Broward and south Palm Beach Counties. Volunteer your time, advocate for JA programs to be part of your child’s education and make a gift to help expand JA experiences for students K–12 and beyond. 

Because when we invest in every child, we build a future where everyone belongs.

From First Step to Full Speed Ahead: Jacob Wilson’s Story 

Sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity to change the direction of a life. 

For Jacob Wilson, that opportunity came through Junior Achievement of South Florida’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program—where he became one of JA’s very first graduates in the Marine Technician track. Today, he’s not just working in the marine industry—he’s thriving in it. 

But Jacob will be the first to tell you: it’s not just about what he learned. It’s about who he became. 

Before JA, the marine industry wasn’t even on his radar. Now, it’s his future. 

Through the Pre-Apprenticeship Program, Jacob gained hands-on technical training and real-world exposure that gave him the confidence to step into an entirely new field. But beyond the hard skills, it was the everyday habits—the soft skills—that truly set him apart. 

Showing up on time. Being present. Taking notes. Accepting constructive criticism and using it to grow. 

The kinds of skills that don’t just land you a job—but help you keep it, grow in it, and stand out. 

And Jacob does stand out. 

“I know my employer looks at me and says, ‘That’s the person I want on my team,’” he shared. It’s a statement he carries with pride—and one that fuels him every single day. That sense of purpose, of being valued, has become both his motivation and his momentum. 

JA didn’t just teach Jacob how to work—it showed him what it takes to succeed. 

Through immersive, real-world experiences, he learned how to navigate expectations, adapt in professional environments, and take ownership of his future. The program didn’t just open a door—it gave him the confidence to walk through it. 

And for Jacob, that made all the difference. That path is now full speed ahead. 

Help create more stories like Jacob’s. Employers can become JA Pre-Apprenticeship partners, parents can encourage students to explore these career pathways, and individuals and organizations can make a financial contribution to help more young people access meaningful opportunities. JA career tracks include HVAC Technician, Yacht Service Technician, Water Operations Specialist, Wastewater Operations Specialist, Electrician, Plumber, Roofer, and Telecommunications Lineman. 

Where Trade Careers Come to Life 

The room was filled with curiosity, ambition, and a lot of thoughtful questions at Junior Achievement of South Florida’s Trailblazers in Trades Summit – an event designed to bring students face-to-face with the people behind some of today’s most essential and in-demand industries. 

Focused on the marine, construction, and water management fields, the summit gave JA Pre-Apprenticeship students an inside look at what it really takes to build a career in the skilled trades. Professionals shared their career journeys, a day in the life of their work, and the range of roles within their industries. They also offered honest insight into pay ranges, recommended entry points, and how AI and other disruptors are beginning to reshape the future of their fields. 

What made the event especially powerful was how authentic the conversations felt. Panelists didn’t just talk about job titles, they shared personal stories, career pivots, and real-life moments that made their work meaningful and exciting. Students had the opportunity to ask questions during the panel, and it was clear they were fully engaged. Many asked about their own personal situations, how to get their foot in the door, and what next steps they could take to explore these careers more seriously. 

That energy carried beyond the stage. 

After the panel discussion, students had the chance to meet one-on-one with the professionals, introduce themselves, and start building connections that could lead to real-life opportunity. You could see the spark – students weren’t just inspired, they were ready. Ready to learn more, ready to take action, and ready to imagine themselves in these industries. 

That spirit is exactly what JA’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed to ignite. 

Through a six-month, work-based learning experience, the program helps students fast track their future with industry-recognized certifications, hands-on training, employer exposure, career readiness skills, and a pathway into paid employment. JA currently offers Pre-Apprenticeship pathways in Marine Service Technician, Construction, and Water Management, with Telecommunications launching in the 2026–2027 school year. 

By connecting students with real professionals and real possibilities, JA’s Pre-Apprenticeship Program is doing more than preparing young people for jobs -it is helping them discover where they can thrive. 

Where Real Conversations Begin – Bold Xchange Live 

No scripts. No slides. No safety net. 

Just real talk! The kind that usually stays behind closed doors. 

Junior Achievement of South Florida pulled back the curtain last month with the launch of Bold Xchange, a new platform designed to spark the kind of honest, unfiltered business conversations that actually move people and industries forward. Presented by On The Ball, the inaugural event underscored the power of partnership in bringing bold ideas and meaningful dialogue to the forefront.  

The debut event, Bold Xchange Live: “The Future Is In Good Hands,” took over the Tower Club in Fort Lauderdale on March 13, setting the tone for what this series is all about: raw insight, real pressure, and the truth behind leadership. 

In the room? Four next-generation leaders stepping into powerful legacies – Andrew Ansin, Andrew Koenig, Christina Pappas, and Teddy Morse. No rehearsed remarks. No polished talking points. Just candid reflections on what it really means to inherit success: the weight of expectation, the complexity of family business, the culture you protect, and the changes you dare to make. 

Moderated by Marc Nudelberg, President of On The Ball, the conversation didn’t just skim the surface – it went straight to the core. The kind of dialogue you don’t often hear, but everyone needs. 

Because that’s the point. 

“Bold Xchange exists because the conversations that actually change things rarely happen in public,” said Junior Achievement of South Florida President & CEO Laurie Sallarulo. “We’re creating the room where they do.” 

And now, that room extends far beyond a single event. 

With the launch of the Bold Xchange – The Podcast, those same powerful conversations are now available anytime, anywhere. Hosted by Sallarulo, the podcast dives deep with the entrepreneurs, executives, and cultural forces shaping South Florida’s future – bringing listeners closer to the decisions, risks, and defining moments behind success. 

The first episode? An exclusive, no-holds-barred conversation with Rita Case, CEO of Rick Case Automotive and one of South Florida’s most iconic business leaders. 

This is more than a series. It’s a movement! One that connects established leaders with the next generation rising behind them, creating a two-way exchange of insight, perspective, and possibility. 

And it’s just getting started. 

Another Bold Xchange Live event is already on the horizon. If you’re ready for conversations that challenge, inspire, and push boundaries. Get on the list. Because the future isn’t just being talked about. 

It’s being built out loud. 

Fast Trades, Big Dreams 

The energy was electric as Junior Achievement of South Florida welcomed high school students from Broward County and South Palm Beach County to this year’s Stock Market Challenge –an unforgettable, fast-paced experience where learning meets adrenaline. 

Over the course of three action-packed days, students stepped into a high-speed trading floor where every minute mirrored a full day on Wall Street. The room buzzed with excitement as teams scrambled to track breaking news, analyze market trends, and make split-second decisions. Volunteers moved swiftly through the crowd collecting trades, while the ringing bell signaled the opening of each trading round – sending waves of anticipation across the room. 

Armed with $500,000 in imitation currency, students built their initial portfolios from more than 25 fictitious companies before diving into the competition. But success wasn’t just about quick thinking -it was about collaboration, strategy, and a deep understanding of how the market works. Teams leaned on one another, debated decisions, and adapted in real time as the market shifted around them. 

The result? An immersive, high-energy learning experience that brought financial literacy in the classroom to life in a way no textbook ever could. And the competition was fierce. One standout team rose to the top, finishing with an impressive portfolio valued at over $758,000. 

Beyond the numbers, the Stock Market Challenge is about building confidence, sharpening critical thinking skills, and giving students a glimpse into real-world financial decision-making. It’s where future investors, entrepreneurs, and leaders begin to see what’s possible. 

A special thank you to our Title Sponsor, Fifth Third Bank, and our Presenting Sponsor, Space Coast Credit Union, for helping make this impactful experience possible for our students.