A TOP prize of £30,000 plus £10,000 for four other finalists are up for grabs in this year’s Stelios Award for Disabled Entreprenuers.
Now in its 10th year, the Stelios Award recognises achievements of disabled entrepreneurs who have overcome challenges to set up their own company and excel in their chosen business field.
All forms of entrepreneurship or planned business activity – even start-ups – which are operated by disabled people or for the benefit of disabled people are eligible to apply.
Employers who employ significant numbers of disabled people or supply products or services for disabled people. Are also being urged to apply.
Sir Stelios said: “I am delighted that this idea I had 10 years ago has matured to be an institution still supported by the leading charity in the UK in the field of disability.
“To celebrate our 10th anniversary I have decided to increase the cash prizes to £70,000 and make it more inclusive so even people with a worthy business plan can apply.”
The winner will be personally chosen by Sir Stelios and will be presented at a gala evening on November 10.
Past winners have been drawn from the travel agency, building and IT sectors as well as businesses specialising in disability/mobility aids and services.
Last year’s winner, paralysed sailor Geoff Holt, said: “Following the award, my business, Wetwheels, received nationwide publicity which led to an increase in enquiries from new clients which is great news for all involved. 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: October 10.
Applications are now being accepted online at the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation Facebook page: www.facebook.com/steliosfoundation. Or with Leonard Cheshire:www.leonardcheshire.org/stelios
Tel 0207 112 1489
PICTURED: Sir Stelios with last year’s winner Geoff Holt
