Algernon Sydney Sullivan Foundation's New Initiative to Empower Young Changemakers with Impact Prize

Empowering Young Changemakers: The Sullivan Impact Prize

The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Foundation has recently introduced the Sullivan Impact Prize, a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower students and young alumni to develop solutions that create significant and lasting impacts on their communities. Announced on November 3, 2025, this innovative program aims to nurture the next generation of changemakers across the southern United States.

What is the Sullivan Impact Prize?

The Impact Prize is a competitive program open to participants under the age of 35 who are affiliated with the Sullivan network, which includes award recipients, scholarship winners, and previous program participants. By encouraging practical and creative approaches to community challenges, the initiative seeks to support and elevate the aspirations of young leaders.

Finalists will have the opportunity to showcase their projects at the Foundation's Ignite Retreat, scheduled for March 28-29, 2026. The winning project will earn a $1,000 cash prize and gain visibility through a showcase at an April event, along with the potential for additional funding that could amount to $10,000 for further development.

A Timeline for Changemakers

Applications for the Sullivan Impact Prize are currently open, with a streamlined process that includes both campus business plan competitions and an open application route. Two categories of applicants will be considered: winners from campus competitions and individual entries. All applicants must submit a short application and a video presenting their idea by December 2025.

In January 2026, a panel of judges will narrow the submissions down to five finalists. These individuals will then pitch their innovative solutions during the Ignite Retreat, where they will present to an audience of dignitaries, mentors, and peers.

Following the retreat, the champion will present their project at the Sullivan Showcase in April 2026, marking the culmination of their journey through the competition.

Fostering Leadership and Entrepreneurship

The Sullivan Impact Prize not only continues the Foundation's long-standing commitment to leadership development and mission-driven entrepreneurship but also enhances it. This initiative introduces structured pathways for funding, mentorship opportunities, and increased visibility within the Sullivan network.

The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Foundation, established in 1930, honors the legacy of Algernon and Mary Mildred Sullivan. It collaborates with over 70 colleges and universities throughout the American South. The Foundation aims to inspire and equip young people to lead with integrity and compassion, promoting values-driven approaches to the challenges their communities face.

With a history of initiatives such as the Sullivan Fellows program and the Sullivan Service Corps, the Foundation has positioned itself as a leader in fostering ethical and effective community engagement.

Looking Ahead

The Sullivan Impact Prize represents a cherished opportunity for students and young alumni to channel their creativity and ambition toward meaningful community change. The Foundation believes in the potential of youth and is committed to providing the necessary resources, mentorship, and recognition to facilitate impactful projects.

For further information and to apply for the Sullivan Impact Prize, interested applicants can visit sullivanfdn.org/impact-prize. Here, they can find complete guidelines and the interest form necessary for participation.

As we look forward to the exciting innovations that will emerge from this initiative, it’s a reminder that the power to effect change lies within each aspiring leader—and with the right support, the possibilities are limitless.