June 17, 2026 — Student company Bloom Buddies has been named the recipient of JA British Columbia’s 2026 Celebrate Entrepreneurship Award. This $3,000 award, sponsored by the B.C. Ministry of Jobs and Economic Growth, recognizes the JA student company that best demonstrates innovation, adaptability, and entrepreneurial excellence.
Formed by a team of high school students and guided by volunteer mentors, Bloom Buddies demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial resilience throughout the JA Company Program. The team initially launched a plant starter kit business focused on promoting well-being through plant care. After testing the concept at a community market and seeing limited customer demand, they reassessed their approach.
Drawing on customer feedback and market observations, the team pivoted to creating customizable pipe cleaner flower bouquets called Eternal Flowers. The new product aligned with their goal of creating meaningful gifts while offering customers a creative and long-lasting alternative to traditional flowers. Their ability to adapt and respond to market demand set them apart among this year’s student companies.
A portion of proceeds from Bloom Buddies’ sales was donated to the Canadian Cancer Society in support of cancer research, patients, and families. The team’s contribution reflected a commitment to community impact and aligned with the organization’s use of floral symbolism in its awareness campaigns.
“Bloom Buddies has shown how creativity and resilience can transform a simple idea into a thriving business,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth. “Their success reflects the importance of giving young people the opportunity to test ideas, learn from challenges, and grow. By supporting entrepreneurship programs like this, we are helping turn today’s aspiring entrepreneurs into tomorrow’s job creators and economic drivers across this province.”
Bloom Buddies participated in the 16-week JA Company Program, which empowers high school students to launch and operate their own start-up businesses. Guided by business mentors, students gain hands-on experience in product development, design thinking, marketing, business operations, e-commerce, and financial management. Student ventures are encouraged to align with one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, helping participants connect entrepreneurship with positive social impact.