Mr Ryan, who is chief executive of the fledgling Inspiring Stories Trust, took the CED HotHouse competition category 1 award after pitching his concept to a "dragon's den" of business and community leaders in Auckland on Tuesday night.
"It's mind-blowing stuff. I'm overwhelmed," Mr Ryan said.
Chosen from among more than 20 applicants, Mr Ryan went up against three other finalists to present the social benefits and economic viability of his trust.
"I was pretty nervous," he said. "We each had to give a four-minute pitch and then there were eight minutes of questions from the judges."
Mr Ryan's presentation beat an iPhone application to teach young New Zealanders about native fauna, a Wellington community meals scheme, and an idea to provide IT services to non-profit organisations.
Inspiring Stories Trust brings together film-makers and change-makers to create films that publicise people-driven stories about sustainability and community.
Speaking from Auckland yesterday, Mr Ryan said he was "pretty humbled".
"There are some seriously brilliant minds from throughout New Zealand and the world here," he said.
The panel of five judges included Westpac bank senior business manager Mike Hirst.
"All four finalists had social enterprises of merit, but Guy's presentation was the clear winner," Mr Hirst, of Auckland, said.
"He was clear and focused about his intent to make sure young people get to tell their stories.
"The ability to generate different revenue streams means it has a high chance of commercial viability."
Mr Ryan has been heading a team conducting youth-focused, film-making workshops throughout the South Island.
The team begins the 10-week North Island leg of the national tour next month.
The $5000 prize money will be used to continue the employment of Laura Madden, who has been logistics co-ordinator for the workshop tour.
