The Hendricks Foundation Wins at NextCycle Michigan Showcase

Recognized for its circular initiative that bridges the digital divide

October 04, 2024 — The Hendricks Foundation was awarded two prestigious awards, the Community Impact Award valued at $1,000 and the Harvest Grant worth $5,000, during the NextCycle Michigan Fall Showcase on October 2. These awards, sponsored by the Michigan Recycling Coalition and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), recognize the innovative project pitch delivered by Dean Hendricks, who presented the foundation's “Access 2 All” initiative.

NextCycle Michigan, an initiative of EGLE, aims to advance businesses and projects that enhance material recovery, reuse, and recycling in Michigan. Teams selected for the program receive access to research, mentorship, coaching, accelerator camps, business planning, and pitch development, culminating in the Showcase, where they compete for awards, investment opportunities, and partnerships.

Hendricks pitched Access 2 All, a program designed to address the digital divide by collecting donated computers, teaching students how to repair them, and returning refurbished devices to needy communities. The initiative demonstrates a unique intersection of sustainability and skill-building while empowering underserved populations.

“This award validates the hard work and mission of Access 2 All,” Hendricks said during the event. “Our goal is not only to extend the life of technology but to create opportunities for learning and growth that can transform lives.”

In addition to awards, the Showcase included photoshoots and networking activities that celebrated the progress of all participating teams.

Looking ahead, The Hendricks Foundation is preparing to establish facilities in Boston and Detroit to expand the program and offer hands-on courses that teach computer repair to students, furthering their impact on digital equity and environmental sustainability.

All teams that pitched during the Showcase also received a $5,000 Harvest Grant from EGLE, recognizing months of progress and supporting the next steps of their innovative solutions.

~Renelle