Stelios Foundation Launches 2026 Young Entrepreneur Awards in Monaco and French Riviera

The Stelios Philanthropic Foundation has opened applications for the 2026 Young Entrepreneur Awards, aiming to foster innovation, business growth, and job creation in Monaco and the French Riviera. Now in its second year in the region, the initiative is led by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of the easy family of brands, and continues to spotlight emerging entrepreneurial talent.

Eligible applicants are entrepreneurs born in 1992 or later who run a company registered in Monaco or the French Riviera. Participating businesses must have been established within the last five years and generate a minimum of €50,000 in annual revenue. Applicants must also be company directors and hold majority ownership, with more than 50 per cent equity in their business.

The competition offers a total prize fund of €60,000, to be reinvested into the winning businesses. The overall winner will receive €30,000, while second and third place will be awarded €20,000 and €10,000, respectively. The funding is designed to help recipients scale their operations and accelerate growth.

Applications can be submitted via the Stelios Foundation website until 5:00pm CET on 15 April 2026. Winners will be announced at a dedicated ceremony on 21 May at the Stelios Foundation Conference Hall in Monaco, underlining the Principality’s role as a growing hub for entrepreneurial talent and innovation.