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For the 15th year in a row, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou is once again giving back to both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs through the Stelios Bi-Communal Business Cooperation Awards. This year, the total prize pool has been increased to €410,000, providing a valuable boost to 20 lucky winners.
The Stelios Bi-Communal Awards, which have become a significant and much-anticipated event in Cyprus, are all about promoting economic cooperation between the two communities on the island. Since the program began, the foundation has awarded a total of €4.8 million, making a real difference for many businesses over the years.
The winners will be revealed in April 2025, and the award ceremony will take place at the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation’s headquarters in Nicosia.
This year’s winners will share the €410,000 prize money in various categories. The top prize, the Gold Award, is €100,000 (€50,000 for each member of the bi-communal team). There will also be two Silver Awards, each worth €50,000 (€25,000 per entrepreneur), and seven Bronze Awards, each giving out €30,000 (€15,000 per entrepreneur).
Applications for the awards are now open and will be accepted until February 28. Business teams that meet the criteria – including Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs with at least €10,000 in annual turnover and at least one staff member – are invited to apply. They can download the application form from the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation website and submit it by email.
Sir Stelios emphasized the importance of these awards, saying, "Economic cooperation between the two communities in Cyprus is fundamental for building mutual understanding and trust, ultimately contributing to lasting peace on the island." He expressed his pleasure at seeing both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots warmly embrace the initiative over the years.
The winners will be revealed in April 2025, and the award ceremony will take place at the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation’s headquarters in Nicosia.
As always, these awards not only help boost businesses but also foster greater unity and cooperation between the communities. It's a tradition that continues to make a positive impact and support the entrepreneurial spirit on both sides of the island.
With information from CNA
