A new €500,000 business awards programme has been launched to encourage cross-border entrepreneurship on the island of Ireland. The North-South Business Cooperation Awards, spearheaded by the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, will distribute the prize money among 18 entrepreneurs representing nine enterprises. To be eligible, businesses must be registered in either the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland within the last five years and currently engaged in cross-border trading.
The initiative is backed by Stelios Haji-Ioannou, a Greek Cypriot entrepreneur and founder of the “easyGroup,” which includes the British airline EasyJet. The official launch took place at the Monaghan Peace Campus, supported by the peacebuilding charity Co-operation Ireland. Mr.
Encouraging cross-border entrepreneurship
Haji-Ioannou emphasized the broader impact of the awards, stating, “These awards represent more than just recognition—they embody a commitment to building a better, more connected future on the island of Ireland. When businesses from both sides of the border collaborate, they do more than drive economic growth; they build trust, create lasting jobs, and strengthen the social and economic fabric of our communities.”
Ian Jeffers, Chief Executive of Co-operation Ireland, echoed these sentiments, saying, “These awards recognize that co-operation is not just a shared ideal—it’s a powerful driver of real economic progress. Sir Stelios’ commitment to backing ambitious entrepreneurs across the island is both timely and inspiring.
By supporting ventures that operate beyond traditional boundaries, we’re helping to embed lasting economic ties that benefit communities North and South.”
Applications for the awards are now open, with more information available on the Stelios Foundation website. The awards ceremony will take place at Castle Leslie Estate in County Monaghan in October.