7 Days of Genius: Start-Up Challenge

We want you to tackle some of the biggest issues facing our communities. Take the challenge and showcase your genius — the bolder and more ambitious your idea the better.

In addition to a cash prize, winners will be connected to experts relevant to their idea and may have the opportunity to have their idea featured on MSNBC.

92Y and Impact Hub are partnering to unearth the next generation of social entrepreneurs. Do you have an idea that could impact communities, environments and cultures in an innovative way? We’re looking to accelerate the growth of early-stage companies with the potential to have a major positive impact on our world.

In addition to a cash prize, winners will be connected to experts relevant to their idea and may have the opportunity to have their idea featured on MSNBC.

In order to take part in the challenge, please click here.

Second Annual Microsoft Small Business Video Contest

The second annual Microsoft Small Business video contest is here!

Microsoft is launching their second annual Small Business video contest, and we need your help. Last year we launched our first small business video contest with a simple request for small businesses to share their business stories via a 2-minute video. We reached 21 million people and had over 175 entries.

Our 2016 contest, starting January 25, is a great opportunity for business influencers to help small businesses in the US.

We will recognize the best, most inspirational and original video that showcases a small business story. The grand prize winner will win $20,000, new Surface Pro 4s, and subscriptions to Office 365 for their business (up to 10 devices/seats) in addition to a publicity package.

In addition, this year we will award a prize to four business associations. When a business connected to your organization enters the contest, they can write in your organization name for a chance to win a Surface Pro 4 and one-year subscription to Office 365.

The 2015 grand prize winner was Citizen Frederick, a men’s retail clothing store. Other winners included an innovative technology product for pets, a women’s clothing boutique, an embroidery franchise and a frame shop. Among the dozens of entries we received there were many inspirational stories from non-profits, retail, and online businesses.

"It was great fun and more importantly, our small business was seen by a few more people…It is great for a large company like Microsoft to support the little guys and both Luke and I appreciate your help!” Custom-Wood-Urns

You can find more information and enter the contest by clicking here.