Search is on for Disabled Entrepreneur 2010

The search is now on to find the Stelios Disabled Entrepreneur of the Year 2010 – and up for grabs is a first prize of £50,000!

This major award is run by Leonard Cheshire Disability and sponsored by easyGroup Chairman Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou.

“I am very passionate about encouraging an enterprising spirit,” said Sir Stelios. “We received a terrific response last year from disabled entrepreneurs all over the UK and, as one of the judges, I was amazed by the high standard of entries – arriving at a shortlist proved a difficult task just because there are so many talented entrepreneurs out there.

“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,” Sir Stelios added.

Last year’s winner was John Pickup, whose Amputees in Action supplies amputee extras and stuntmen for film, television and for Armed Forces casualty training.

“£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,” John explained. “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.

“Disabled people experience disadvantage and discrimination in business and enterprise every day, largely through ignorance and this needs to change,” John said.

All entries must be received by Friday 3 September. The 2010 winner will be announced at the Growing Business Awards in London on 25 November.

MORE: www.disabledentrepreneur.org.