Ashoka and Staples Launch Fourth Annual Global Youth Social Entrepreneur Competition

Ashoka, a global community of leading social entrepreneurs, and Staples, Inc. have announced the launch of the fourth annual Staples/Ashoka Youth Social Entrepreneur Competition.

The global competition highlights youth-led organizations focused on social issues affecting their communities, and is part of Ashoka's Youth Venture, an initiative designed to identify and foster young entrepreneurs all over the world who are creating positive change.
The competition is open to existing and new Youth Venture teams made up of young people between the ages of 12 and 24 whose entrepreneurial ventures are making a positive impact on communities.

Nominations and entries will be accepted on a rolling basis through September 20, 2010. Eight winners will be chosen throughout the summer, and in October the grand-prize winner will be selected for their outstanding impact, innovation, and potential. All eight winners will be recognized at a TEDx conference, a national gathering of thought leaders devoted to "Ideas Worth Spreading," on November 13, 2010, in Washington, D.C.

During the TEDx conference, the grand-prize winning team will be announced and presented with the Staples/Ashoka Youth Social Entrepreneur Excellence Award and a prize worth $5,000. The seven remaining winners will each receive Achievement Awards and prizes worth $500. The grand-prize winning team will also have the opportunity to consult with high-level Staples executives. All eight winning teams will get the opportunity to meet with an Ashoka Fellow.

Winners will be chosen on a rolling basis, so don't wait!

For additional information on the Staples/Ashoka Youth Social Entrepreneur Competition, visit the competition Web site.