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Backing of new MTV site draws criticism

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Published: Sept. 27, 2007 at 9:25 AM
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NEW YORK, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- MTV is testing a social networking Web site called ThinkMTV.com to encourage activism among young people but its backing is upsetting some non-profit sites.

ThinkMTV has the financial support of four foundations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Case Foundation, The New York Times reported..

But, several similar non-profit sites are upset over the foundations’ alliance with a for-profit venture, especially those who sought unsuccessfully for the same endorsements.

An MTV official told the Times the network wasn't trying to compete with existing social networks and welcomed their participation.

It isn't unusual for foundations to collaborate with businesses, such as the Gates Foundation working with Merck to provide AIDS drugs in Botswana, the newspaper report said.

Topics: Melinda Gates
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