October 19, 2018 – For the fourth year, the B.C. Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology is sponsoring JA British Columbia’s Celebrate Entrepreneurship Student Award. Presented annually in June, the $3,000 prize recognizes a JA Student Company that demonstrates the most innovation.

The most recent award was given to a JA Student Company called Purify. Their product, Charclean, is an organic charcoal water filter that cleans bacteria from tap water. Judged by a panel of experts, Purify was chosen for their group synergy, usefulness and charitable donation. The next Celebrate Entrepreneurship Student Award will be presented to a JA Student Company in June 2019.

With the support of corporate sponsors and volunteer mentors from the business community, the JA Company Program runs for 12-16 weeks, offering B.C. students in grades 10-12 a unique opportunity to develop and run their own entrepreneurial venture.

According to a 2011 Boston Consulting Group report for JA Canada, students who have participated in a JA program are 50% more likely to open their own business and develop one that lasts longer than the average Canadian new venture. This ultimately leads to innovation, new jobs and wealth creation.

“We are so pleased to receive support from the Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology to help recognize our most innovative JA Student Company,” said Sheila Biggers, President and CEO of JA British Columbia. “Their contribution helps spark the entrepreneurial spirit of our youth and give them the confidence and skills to start their small business in the future.”

About Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology

The Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology manages government services that help support and maintain the strong and diverse economy that British Columbians need for long-term prosperity. It’s the ministry’s mandate to grow B.C.’s technology sector, champion innovation, nurture small businesses, support economic development throughout the province, and promote B.C. internationally as a preferred place to invest and do business. To learn more, visit here.

 About JA British Columbia

JA British Columbia (JABC) is a member of JA Canada and part of JA Worldwide (JA), the world’s largest not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating young people about business. Since 1955, British Columbia schools have relied on JA to inspire and prepare youth to succeed in an ever-changing global economy. Last year, almost 38,000 B.C. students benefited from JABC programs delivered free of charge by volunteers from local business communities, who bring their real-life experience into the classroom. JABC programs focus on work readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship, giving students the confidence and skills they need to become the next generation of business and community leaders. To learn more, visit https://jabc.org.

Pictured: 2018 JA Company Program winners from Purify Pacal Dharmawan (left) and Jason Ngai (right) with Ian Tostenson President and CEO British Columbia Restaurant and Food Services Association (centre)