As part of the Pure Michigan Social Entrepreneurship Challenge, The Magic Johnson Foundation has partnered with Michigan Corps to sponsor a $3,000 prize for a millennial-led social venture in Michigan. The Millennial Prize for Social Innovation will award a millenial entrepreneur (young adult born between the years 1976 and 1996) who demonstrates promise for bringing about positive change in Michigan through a sustainable business model.

The Magic Johnson Foundation was founded in 1991 to develop programs and support community-based organizations that address the educational, health and social needs of ethnically diverse, urban communities. The Magic Johnson Foundation's commitment to the Pure Michigan Social Entrepreneurship Challenge is one more way that Earvin "Magic" Johnson is returning to his roots in Michigan and supporting endeavors that spark positive momentum in the state.

"We are thrilled to support a prize for a millennial entrepreneur participating in the Pure Michigan Social Entrepreneurship Challenge" said Amelia Williamson, President of the Magic Johnson Foundation. "These innovators are building healthy, vibrant communities across Michigan, and we're pleased to elevate and support their work through this prize."  

Created by Michigan Corps, in partnership with Great Lakes Entrepreneurs' Quest (GLEQ) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the Pure Michigan Social Entrepreneurship Challenge  invites individuals and teams to submit plans for an emerging organization or a new enterprise idea focused on sustainable social change in a wide range of areas including but not limited to urban revitalization, energy, environment, health, and education.

In addition to the $3,000 Millennial Prize for Social Innovation, The Pure Michigan Social Entrepreneurship Challenge will award more than $50,000 in prizes sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and $15,000 in prizes sponsored by THAW and Consumers Energy for solutions advancing energy affordability in low-income communities around the state.

"The Millennial Prize for Social Innovation is a great example of ways that Michigan continues to emerge as a welcoming place for young entrepreneurs to jump-start new ventures, and create a growing pool great talent across our state," said Amy Cell, Senior Vice President, Talent Enhancement at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

Award winners of the Pure Michigan Social Entrepreneurship Challenge will be announced on June 18 at Entrepreneur Connect in Lansing, MI. 

To learn more about the Pure Michigan Social Entrepreneurship Challenge visit http://michigancorps.org/TheChallenge . For more information, contact Michigan Corps' Executive Director Elizabeth Garlow at egarlow@michigancorps.org