Building What’s Next: Meet the 2026 JA StartUP Cohort
This spring, a new generation of entrepreneurs is turning ideas into action through JA StartUP. From bakers and barbers to app developers, photographers, landscapers, and food entrepreneurs, nine young business owners from across the region are building companies rooted in creativity, resilience, and community impact.
Through Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans’ JA StartUP program, these emerging entrepreneurs are gaining more than business skills. They are building confidence, connections, and a support system designed to help them grow sustainable ventures and strengthen the local economy.
The 2026 cohort launched on May 16 with an Orientation and Partner Round Table introducing participants to leaders from across New Orleans’ entrepreneurial ecosystem. The discussion focused on the realities of building a business, accessing resources, overcoming barriers, and creating ventures that positively impact local communities.
Panelists included Keion Hennessey of Fund 17, Hannah Kreiger-Benson of the Music and Culture Coalition of New Orleans (MaCCNO), Sean Mulligan of The Idea Village, and Jessica Allen of Propeller. Together, they shared insight into mentorship, funding opportunities, advocacy, innovation, and the importance of community-centered entrepreneurship in New Orleans.
The opening session also gave participants the opportunity to practice networking and relationship-building skills while connecting directly with leaders and organizations invested in helping local entrepreneurs succeed.
Throughout May, cohort members participated in hands-on workshops focused on building the foundations necessary for long-term business success. Justin Williams, founder and CEO of Helping Hand Accounting Services LLC, led a workshop on Taxes as an Entrepreneur, helping participants better understand tax preparation, LLC formation, compliance, and financial management. Upcoming additional workshops on Market Research and Digital Storytelling and the Business Model Canvas will help participants strengthen their business strategies, define their audiences, and communicate their stories more effectively.
This year’s JA StartUP cohort reflects the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit emerging across our region:
Rowan Dicket – RGD Bakery: gourmet cakes, cookies, cake pops, and custom desserts created through a growing home-based bakery business.
Zakaira Casimir – Sweets & Heats: a food business combining sweet treats and hot meals to create flavorful, accessible dining options.
Collin Chatelain – CVC Lawncare: professional lawn maintenance and landscaping services for residential and commercial clients.
Matisse Coleman – AllerFree: a mobile app designed to help individuals with food allergies identify harmful ingredients while shopping.
Cornelius Johnson – Cut & Capture: photography and videography services focused on creative storytelling and preserving meaningful experiences.
Trinity Marshall – The Milan Collective: a lifestyle brand combining fashion, beauty, wellness, and media to inspire confidence and personal growth.
Lance Richardson – Leeshine Financials: financial services helping Louisiana families access affordable life insurance and financial protection.
Sundiata Strange – 5 Star Grub Hub: catering and plate lunch services providing convenient, flavorful meals for individuals and events.
Zyan Williams – 504 Training: a sports performance training program focused on strength, agility, conditioning, and athletic development.
The program will culminate on June 20 with the JA StartUP Business Showcase, an expo-style event where participants will present their businesses to judges and community members. Entrepreneurs will compete for up to $20,000 in judge-awarded funding and an additional $5,000 selected through community voting.
As these young entrepreneurs prepare to showcase their businesses, they are also stepping into a growing network of mentors, partners, and supporters invested in their success. JA StartUP continues to demonstrate that when young people are given access to guidance, resources, and meaningful opportunities, they can build businesses that strengthen both their futures and the future of our region.