Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans and Oscar J. Tolmas are shining a light on entrepreneurs of necessity to help inspire the next generation of young innovators, culinary artists, and creatives whose work exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of our city.

JA StartUP will help these young culture bearers learn how to sustain their businesses, create a strong business model, and ultimately, pitch their ideas to a panel of mentors committed to helping them succeed. Our mentors will award up to $25,000 and will commit to mentoring the winning team to help them reach the next level!

At our final showcase, each participant will be given a booth and will present their business to a mix of judges and community members. Each judge will have five $1000 chips to give to the businesses of their choice. Community members will also have the opportunity to award $50 chips to the businesses they like best!