NICOSIA: Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the founder of the easy family of brands and the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, has announced the latest round of the Stelios Bi-Communal Business Cooperation Awards, with a significant increase in prize money this year. A total of £410,000 will be awarded to 20 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs, marking the 15th year of the initiative.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Stelios Bi-Communal Awards have become a significant event in Cyprus, fostering economic cooperation between the two communities. This year’s increased prize fund brings the total awarded since the program’s inception to £4.8 million. The awards are structured to support 10 bi-communal business teams, with a Gold Award of £100,000, two Silver Awards of £50,000 each, and seven Bronze Awards of £30,000 each.
Applications will be open from January 2 to February 28, requiring interested teams to submit their applications through the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation’s website. Eligible applicants must be Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot business owners with a minimum annual turnover of £10,000 and at least one employee besides the owner. They must also demonstrate a joint venture operating within both communities. Previous participants in the awards are invited to apply again if they meet the criteria.
The winners will be announced in April 2025 by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou at a ceremony in the foundation’s headquarters in Nicosia. Sir Stelios emphasized the importance of economic collaboration between the two communities as a pathway to mutual understanding and lasting peace on the island. He also expressed his satisfaction with the enthusiastic reception the awards have received from both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.