Author: Cathy Essick
Corporate Responsibility
Published:
Monday, 03 Nov 2025
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Image caption: From classrooms to communities, local business leaders empower JA students to dream big and think like entrepreneurs.
This November, Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa (JAEI) is celebrating Entrepreneur Month by shining a spotlight on the dreamers, innovators, and risk-takers who help drive our local economy forward. Throughout the month, we’ll be featuring stories of local entrepreneurs who are inspiring the next generation of leaders—right here in Eastern Iowa.
Entrepreneurship is a vital part of Junior Achievement (JA) programming. From JA BizTown® Mobile and JA Finance Park® Mobile to classroom lessons and JA Career Inspire® experience, JAEI helps students develop an entrepreneurial mindset—one that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and resilience. These experiences show young people that they don’t have to wait to make an impact—they can start building their own opportunities today.
As we celebrate the innovators shaping our communities, we also want to express our appreciation for all the entrepreneurs who volunteer, mentor, and support JA programs. Your real-world experiences help students see what’s possible and encourage them to dream bigger.
Follow along on our blog and social media throughout November as we share stories from local entrepreneurs who embody the spirit of innovation and inspire the next generation to think boldly, act with purpose, and create a brighter future.
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