Last night Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou announced the winner of his Award for Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Greece – 2014, at the Kouros Awards ceremony hosted by Leshi Epiheirimatikotitas, at the Athenaeum Intercontinental Hotel.

The easyJet founder awarded the €50.000 cash prize to Nikolas Minoglou & Christina Martini, the entrepreneurs behind Ancient Greek Sandals. The company, which has its headquarters at Inofita, creates high quality leather handmade ancient sandals using the best raw materials.

In the past seven years, Stelios has presented €350,000 to seven new businesses based in Greece showing his faith in the abilities and potential of young Greek entrepreneurs despite the current troubles.

This year’s winner, Ancient Greek Sandals, was selected by Sir Stelios for the excellent quality of raw materials used, and the fact that it is one of a few Greek companies almost exclusively export orientated. Since 2011, when they started to operate, the Ancient Greek Sandals has managed to become a top foreign fashion brand synonymous with the style from ancient times. Moreover, the fact that the company is completely self-funded with zero debt, makes its success even more impressive.

Sir Stelios told distinguished guests, that young entrepreneurs were the country’s future lifeblood. He said: “For seventh time in a row, I chose to support the vision, the creativity and the pioneering ideas of the promising young entrepreneurs who dare to invest in their country by setting long-term plans and goals – despite the rough financial weather. The willingness of young entrepreneurs to export and build new markets is really impressive – the example of the three finalists show us that when there is boldness and faith, there are also solutions. The Ancient Greek Sandals had a creative idea, based on a sound and viable business plan, listened to the market, developed the business of watching it grow and bear fruit even in a tough business environment. They deserve our congratulations.”

The Stelios Award for Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Greece – 2014 is now in its seventh year. It aims to encourage young entrepreneurs (up to 40 years old) who have spotted a unique business opportunity, taken the risk and have successfully developed their company.

In 2013, the Prize was awarded to the company Nanobionic. The company is the only company that has developed the most efficient innovative high-tech fabrics.