JDA stimulates and supports area-based economic development initiatives throughout the Johannesburg metropolitan area together with public and private sector stakeholders. This ranges from massive upgrades such as the Baralink project to smaller public environment beautification as the one at the High Court precinct.

The JDA also hosts several social events throughout the year, including media tours, Snow in the City and the Halala Awards. The biggest of these is the annual Halala Awards, which celebrates projects and developments initiated by individuals and organisations which have led to the regeneration of the Joburg urban environment.