Member Article

Stelios seeks best disabled entrepreneurs, with £50,000 prize

easyJet founder, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, is on the hunt for the UK’s most talented disabled entrepreneur, who could win £50,000.

This year’s Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs is jointly run by the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation and Leonard Cheshire Disability.

It recognises the achievements of disabled entrepreneurs who have overcome challenges to set up businesses.

Sir Stelios said: “I am passionate about encouraging entrepreneurship, and the previous winners of this award offer proof that there are many highly talented disabled entrepreneurs out there.

“Removing the barriers disabled people face in business is essential - for far too long disability has been associated solely with benefits and welfare. I hope the Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs will change that by highlighting 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, added: “We are delighted to work with Sir Stelios on an award that celebrates the remarkable achievements of disabled entrepreneurs.

“Each one of our previous winners is an example of the drive and determination that characterises entrepreneurs; and a role model for young disabled people of the range of possibilities that lie ahead of them. There are no limits to what they can achieve.

I know there are many more talented and successful disabled entrepreneurs out there – I urge them to take advantage of this unique opportunity and apply.“

Last year’s winners, David Hawkins and Stuart Dunne, manufacturer and supply bespoke mobility and fitness equipment through their firm, Cyclone Technologies.

To download an application form visit this site, or call 0845 671 7173 (option 1). Alternative formats are available on request and Leonard Cheshire Disability can also support applicants to fill in the form over the phone. The deadline is 25 October 2013.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .