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The Apprentice’s Claude Littner to pick top entrepreneurs for Wizo UK awards
Six winners will have the chance to visit Israel in 2026
March 18, 2025 14:34
Six winners will have the chance to visit Israel in 2026
March 18, 2025 14:34WIZO UK has launched the inaugural year of its Entrepreneur Awards, where nominees will be judged by a panel of business experts, including The Apprentice’s Claude Littner.
The purpose of the awards is to celebrate entrepreneurs who have demonstrated both exceptional skill and innovatory vision, while enacting positive change in society.
Nominations are now open across six categories, with a deadline of May 31, 2025.
The categories include public sector entrepreneur of the year, female entrepreneur of the year, young entrepreneur of the year (for candidates under 30), innovation entrepreneur of the year, creative/start-up entrepreneur of the year and purpose entrepreneur of the year, which celebrates individuals contributing towards a greater cause through business.
Joining the former right-hand man of Lord Sugar on the judging panel are shoe designer to the celebrities, Lisa Kay, JC columnist and former editor Stephen Pollard and Charly Young MBE, founder of the Girls’ Network, which empowers 14 to 19-year-old girls from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Littner, who is expected to make an appearance in this year’s The Apprentice to interview candidates, said: “I’m looking for candidates who demonstrate innovation and business acumen but also resilience, leadership, and a clear vision for the future.
“True entrepreneurs don’t just build successful companies – they inspire change, create opportunities, and leave a lasting impact on their industry and community. I’m looking for bold ideas, strategic execution and a passion for making a difference.”
Semi-finalists will be announced in July, while winners for each category will be declared in August and presented with their awards at a gala dinner on September 8. Winners will also be treated to a trip to Israel in 2026 to witness the work the charity does first-hand.
WIZO is the largest social welfare organisation in Israel. For more than 100 years, it has helped vulnerable Israeli citizens, regardless of race or religion.
The charity supports projects across the country, including daycare centres, vocational training schools and shelters for women and children. It runs life-changing programmes for single-parent families, immigrants, young people and the elderly, and has dedicated hotlines for vulnerable groups.
This year’s awards are sponsored by British businessman and philanthropist David Dangoor. He said: “WIZO has a long history of shining a spotlight on special people whose hard work and creativity add so much value to society. This opportunity to highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and talent of young people alongside established entrepreneurs promises to be transformative."
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