JBA Youth Entrepreneurship Program hosts Business Pitch Contest for 9th graders

Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Oct. 28, 2024 – The Jonesboro Business Association (JBA) will culminate its 2024 Youth Entrepreneurship Program with a Business Pitch Contest on Nov. 7, at 9 a.m. at the Jonesboro High School Performing Arts Center, located at 301 Hurricane Drive in Jonesboro.

This event will feature 9th-grade students from Steve Etter’s and Miranda Kelley’s Keystone classes at MacArthur Junior High School, who have spent weeks creating their own companies and developing full business plans.

A total of 26 student-run businesses have been formed during the program, reflecting the creativity and entrepreneurial drive of these young participants. With guidance from their teachers and JBA, students have learned about business principles like creating mission statements, identifying target audiences, building marketing plans and managing finances. They will present their work to a panel of judges from Arvest Bank and Kitzo Coaching & Counseling.

“The dedication these students have shown is inspiring and we can’t wait for them to share their ideas with the community,” said Reginald Prunty, JBA’s Treasurer and Co-Founder. “This contest is a major milestone, providing them with real-world business experience and valuable skills they’ll carry forward for years to come.”

Each team will pitch their business ideas, followed by a five-minute Q&A with the judges. Presentations will be evaluated based on innovation, market potential, feasibility and presentation skills.

The JBA Youth Entrepreneurship Program is designed to inspire and equip future business leaders. Over the course of the fall semester, 9th graders receive hands-on experience with topics like business strategy, marketing and financial literacy.

“JBA is deeply committed to shaping the future of Northeast Arkansas by equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed,” said Henry Burrell, Founder of JBA. “This Business Pitch Contest is one more step in our mission to make a meaningful impact on our youth, helping them grow into tomorrow’s business leaders.”