A £50,000 cash prize is up for grabs in this year’s Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs.
Entries are wanted for the prize that recognises the talents of established business owners who are disabled, or who have long-term health conditions.
Run in conjunction with Leonard Cheshire Disability, the UK’s leading disability charity, the award is personally chosen and presented by easyJet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou at a special ceremony in London on November 4.
Previous winners have been drawn from the travel agency, homebuild and IT sectors as well as companies specialising in disability/mobility aids.
Sir Stelios said: “Creating opportunities for disabled people facing discrimination in business is essential. The Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs highlights their achievements and contribution to society.
“We want to hear from talented disabled entrepreneurs who are able to show they have got what it takes to run a successful business and meet a real need in the market.”
Clare Pelham, chief executive of Leonard Cheshire Disability, said: “We are delighted to work with Sir Stelios on an award that celebrates the remarkable achievements of disabled entrepreneurs.
“I know there are many talented and successful disabled entrepreneurs out there. I urge them to take advantage of this unique opportunity for valuable recognition of their business and skills – in cash and publicity – and apply.”
Last year’s winner, Ben Wolfenden, said: “Winning the 2014 award has meant so much to me both financially and personally. I’ve been able to solidify the team and our offering, grow some fantastic new clients and build a better working environment for my health.”
Ben said that despite undergoing a gruelling regime of medication and five hours of physiotherapy every day, he and his team have grown Visibilis by over 1,000% in the year 2012-2013, with 2014 exceeding expectations.
“I would urge anyone with a disability, whether you see yourself as an entrepreneur or not, to apply and let Stelios and his team decide!”
Deadline for all applications: Friday 18 September.
Apply online at www.leonardcheshire.org
–
