MTVs 24-hour college network mtvU and NYSE Euronext (NYX) launched Movers & Changers, a nationwide challenge to uncover the countrys next social entrepreneurs who are poised to make a positive impact on society through their innovative business concepts.
Competition finalists will be featured in the new mtvU Movers & Changers short-form series, premiering Monday, 23 November on mtvU, and compete for the ultimate prize of $25,000 in start-up money and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ring the Opening BellSM at the New York Stock Exchange.
Before capturing the ultimate prize, each team of finalists will present their business plans to the Movers & Changers Board, a gathering of the top business and pro-social minds including Blake Mycoskie, founder and Chief Shoe Giver of TOMS Shoes, a for-profit company that has given over 150,000 pairs of shoes to children in need with its One-for-One philosophy, giving a pair of new shoes to a child in need with every pair of shoes sold. Additional board members will be announced at a later date.
College students are always on the frontlines of social change. With their boundless creativity, they have the potential to unlock some of the major issues facing the world today to steer us in a positive direction, says Chris McCarthy, senior vice president of Strategic Development and Digital TV Networks, MTV. By partnering with NYSE Euronext, were able to recognize and honor these future leaders in a way that not only promotes positive social action, but provides them with a platform to interact with the most influential minds in the business world.
Partnering with MTV on Movers & Changers enables us to effectively reach and teach the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders at a time when new ideas and innovation are critically important to the future of the U.S. and global economies, says Duncan L. Niederauer, chief executive officer, NYSE Euronext. Incorporating a socially responsible platform into the program sends a powerful and positive message to young people, one that we hope stays with them throughout their careers.
L.D.