Apr 23, 2026 (San Diego, CA) — Over 200 students from across the San Diego region pitched their companies and shared entrepreneurial journeys at the 2026 JA Rising Innovators Expo presented by TMC Financing. Over the last several months, under the guidance of JA Company Program curriculum, students have conceptualized and developed business solutions that aim to address an issue facing their community, gaining hands-on experience in the entrepreneurial process.

“I think business ownership is a great new path. This program showed me a lot. I have the ability to do this, I can make these steps, and I’m able to make a product and pitch a product. It gave me the confidence I can do it again in the future,” said Gabriella Sanchez, student from e3 Civic High.

With interest in entrepreneurship on the rise among teens and young adults, this experience introduces students to the fundamentals of business creation and ownership and provides a hands-on experience in transforming a business idea into a successful business venture. The skills students develop from building their own businesses fuel their early career journeys and support students’ long-term success in any career field.

“As we consider that small business account for 98 percent of jobs in San Diego, it is critical that our young people have the knowledge and skillset to be entrepreneurs and fuel the future of our regional economy,” said Sidd Vivek, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of San Diego County.

Junior Achievement connects youth, many of whom are engaging in entrepreneurship for the first time, to real business skills, professional mentors, and tangible economic opportunities. By building and pitching their own business ventures, students gain confidence, financial literacy, and career-readiness while showcasing how early exposure to entrepreneurship can drive future workforce development and economic mobility for themselves, their families, and their communities.

The winning teams will be nominated to compete in Junior Achievement USA’s Future Bound national competition and leadership summit. The following teams were awarded at the 2026 JA Rising Innovators Expo:

JA Company of the Year Winners: Recognizing the successful execution of business strategy and management in developing a product or service.

  • 1st Place – Unmixed (Canyon Crest Academy): Waste-free cookie mix kits.
  • 2nd Place – ReDemin Totes (Canyon Crest Academy): Tote bags made from recycled denim.

JA Social Innovation Challenge Winners: Recognizing the uniqueness of a business idea and innovative business strategies, and the potential for scalability, market disruption, and community impact.

  • 1st Place – Aroma Guard (e3 Civic High): Non-toxic, pleasantly scented mosquito repellent.
  • 2nd Place – All Kids Swim (Santana High): Swim lessons for children with special needs.

Innovation Tradeshow Award Honorees:

  • Quick Cakez (e3 Civic High): Microwavable protein cake kits.
  • Level Up (Santana High): Support students with overcoming anxiety with public speaking.

Social Impact Tradeshow Award Honorees:

  • Bad Beaches (San Diego High): Addressing ocean pollution through education programs with elementary school children.
  • Language Clash (Santana High): Language learning app for English-Learner students.

View the photo gallery from the 2026 JA Rising Innovators Expo here.