Sir Stelios supports disabled entrepreneurs

The Stelios Disabled Entrepreneur of the Year 2010, which awards disabled businesses owners, is now open for entries.

The awards are run by Leonard Cheshire Disability and sponsored by easyGroup chairman Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou. Now in its fourth year, the scheme will give a top prize of £50,000 to the winner.

“I am very passionate about encouraging an enterprising spirit and decided to work with Leonard Cheshire Disability to set up the award in 2007,” said Sir Stelios.

“With 50% of disabled adults out of work, removing barriers disabled people face in business is essential. Self employment is the only viable option for many disabled people as it offers flexibility and helps bypass much of the prejudice that sadly still exists.”

Last year’s top prize went to John Pickup who set up Amputees in Action, a business that specialises in supplying amputee extras and stuntmen for film, television and armed forces casualty training.

Speaking about his win, he said: “£50,000 has meant I’ve been able to invest in my business and over 12 months put in a lot of hard work to watch it grow.

“Winning the award, and the support I have received from the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation and Leonard Cheshire Disability, has given Amputees in Action kudos and more importantly confidence to succeed.”

Closing date for entries is Friday 3 September. For more information on how to enter visit www.disabledentrepreneur.org

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2010