Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is JA Canada?

JA Canada is the largest youth business education organization in Canada. With a national office and 17 charter offices, we are passionately committed to our mission of inspiring and preparing youth to succeed in a global economy. We work in partnership with educators, volunteers and businesses to educate students about financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. JA Canada reaches over 230,000 students annually with a dedicated network of over 14,000 volunteers in over 400 communities across Canada. That’s over 4 million students who have benefited from JA programs.

2. What programs does JA Canada offer?
We offer a variety of programs on the subjects of financial literacy, entrepreneurship and work readiness to help youth understand their potential, set life goals and succeed at school and in business. We accomplish this by partnering with teachers and dedicated volunteers who bring the “real world” into the classroom, providing hands-on, real life knowledge and experience to help prepare the leaders of tomorrow. Learn more about our programs.

3. How are programs delivered?

Through our volunteers—enthusiastic business professionals, successful entrepreneurs and committed individuals—who work in collaboration with classroom teachers using a variety of learning methods to engage students. Volunteers also share their personal experiences to help students see how program lessons apply to the real world. Learn more about being a JA volunteer.

4. How can I acknowledge the efforts of a youth in my community?

Each year, JA Canada and our partners recognize the outstanding achievements of students. Awards and scholarships are granted for performance in business competitions; teamwork and cooperation; essay writing and public-speaking; community service and entrepreneurship. Learn more about our awards and scholarships.

JA’s ability to reach youth and improve lives depends on the generous support of its partners and contributors. Learn what it means to support JA.

5. What should I do if I would like to support one of JA programs?

Please visit our Donate page. We thank you for your interest in supporting JA in Canada!

6. Is there a fee for the program?

Thanks to the generous support of our donors, JA is able to provide our programs completely free of charge. Our ability to help empower youth, increase their confidence, and prepare them for the workplace would not be possible without the support of our supporters and volunteers across Canada.

7. I am a teacher and would like to offer a JA program in my classroom. What is the process?

To find out more about how you can offer a program in your classroom, contact your local JA office.

8. Does JA operate outside of Canada?

Yes, JA Worldwide is one of the largest global NGOs with a network of over 120 countries around the world. The JA global network is powered by over 400,000 volunteers and mentors who reach 10 million students. For more information, visit www.jaworldwide.org.

9. Is there a conference or event that I can participate in?

Yes—JA Canada's Next Generation Leaders Forum (NGL) is an international youth leadership conference held every August for Achievers from across Canada and around the world. This week-long experience is a unique blend of personal growth, practical experience and confidence building. Delegates face real business challenges and develop strategies in collaboration with their global peers, university faculty and industry volunteers. Learn more about NGL.

Local JA offices also organize a number of events throughout the year. To find out about what is happening in your area, contact your local JA office.

10. What is the Canadian Business Hall of Fame?

The Canadian Business Hall of Fame was established by JA Canada in 1979 to celebrate the lifetime accomplishments of Canada’s most distinguished business leaders. To date, over 170 Canadians have been honoured with this premier award for business excellence. The awards are presented at the annual Gala Dinner and Induction Ceremony held each May. This event is a key fundraising event in support of JA Canada.