Global Competition for Youth Social Entrepreneurs

Ashoka, a global community of leading social entrepreneurs, and Staples, Inc., have launched the fifth annual Staples/Ashoka Youth Social Entrepreneur Competition.  This year, the global competition highlights youth-led organizations using innovation and technology to address social issues affecting their communities, and is part of Ashoka's Youth Venture, an initiative that identifies and fosters young entrepreneurs (between ages 12 and 24) around the world who are creating positive change.

The competition defines "technology" broadly, and it need not be the primary focus of an applicant's work. For example, young people using social media or digital platforms to accomplish their goals in other fields, such as education or the environment, would qualify. Applicants must be able to demonstrate the impact of their project and be willing to put effort into presenting their story to a global audience.