High school entrepreneurs recently took center stage at Temple University’s Fox School of Business, where bold ideas, polished pitches, and real-world business savvy were on full display during Junior Achievement of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s Future Bound Ignite.
Powered by title sponsor Mid Penn Bank, the event brought together high school students participating in the Junior Achievement Company Program, where student-led teams build and run their own businesses. Future Bound Ignite marks the culmination of the Junior Achievement Company Program, giving students the opportunity to apply what they have learned in a real-world setting. Five student companies competed for the title of Company of the Year, presenting their businesses and ideas through a student expo and formal presentations.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated their work in product development, marketing, pitching, and professional communication while engaging with business leaders, educators, and community partners. Mid Penn Bank team members participated as judges and speakers, including Regional CRA Officer Ryan Thompson and Regional President Abe Ibrahim, who served as a judge for the Spirit of Entrepreneurship award and delivered remarks during the awards ceremony. The competition highlights career-connected learning and encourages innovation to prepare students for future academic and professional opportunities.
“Not too long ago, I was in their seat, trying to figure out what came next,” said Ibrahim. “Programs like this open doors and give students the confidence to take that next step. There’s a lot of potential in the city of Philadelphia, and we’re proud to play a role in helping turn that potential into real opportunity.”
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing top student companies, including The Dare Deck, which earned Overall 2026 Company of the Year. The top teams will advance to the national Future Bound by Junior Achievement competition. The event also comes as Junior Achievement of Southeastern Pennsylvania celebrates its 75th anniversary, marking decades of expanding access and preparing young people for future success.
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