On 17th January 2024, Drapers’ Hall was the stunning backdrop to a special showcase and launch night for the Entrepreneurs’ Award in Social Innovation (EASI). The winner and finalists of the latest EASI competition talked and showcased their innovative plans to improve society and the environment; as well as the important work that EASI and the Company of Entrepreneurs itself does. 
 
The Entrepreneurs Award in Social Innovation is a unique initiative created by The Company of Entrepreneurs which aims to support and accelerate the growth of businesses that are focussed on making a positive impact on society. EASI offers applicants the chance to win a £10,000 grant, together with a package of high-level business support and access to a world-class network of entrepreneurs. 
 
The founders of this year’s winner, DiRibona, expressed their delight at the event for winning the award and how EASI and the Company of Entrepreneurs has provided a huge boost to the business.
Syd Zahid, Financial Director at DiRibona, explained “EASI has propelled us from a concept to a serious business. The mentorship and the support we’ve received has been fantastic. They’ve really helped to shape and structure our start-up in ways we couldn’t have imagined. When we’ve struggled with problems, they’ve always been there to help us. EASI has really helped us to gain momentum.” When speaking about the showcase event, Syd commented “There’s certainly some nerves for tonight when speaking in front of a room of such great business minds. However, it’s an amazing and supportive community and we’re just really looking forward to demonstrating how far we’ve come since EASI began supporting us, and then we want to set a vision and explain where we hope to be in the future.”
 
The event was a huge success and there were some influential guests in attendance, who were all keen to show their support of such a fantastic cause, that is fostering entrepreneurial community spirit in London and accelerating the growth of socially innovative businesses.
 
Alderwoman & Sheriff Dame Susan Langley DBE, expressed how impressed she is with EASI and why it is vital for London to focus on entrepreneurship through initiatives like this.
In her speech, she explained “London should be a thriving hub for entrepreneurs.”
“We’re a city steeped in history, and now we must look to the future and the past to enhance entrepreneurial spirit. Entrepreneurship can be lonely; this is why this community and EASI is so important.”
“We look forward to the Company of Entrepreneurs achieving full livery status, as the amazing work they do has seen very tangible positive results.”
“The city is proud of everything you do, and I’m sure we will be proud of everything you will do in the future.”
Past Master of The Company of Entrepreneurs and creator of EASI, Judy Hadden, shared her enthusiasm for the success of EASI and the impact it’s having on these incredible early-stage businesses.
In her speech, she said "Collectively, we lit up the city and demonstrated the strength and importance of ethical enterprise, collaboration and community."
“As an entrepreneurial community, we share knowledge, and we share problems.”
“It’s important to encourage new ideas and new blood into our community. Without initiatives like EASI, young people won’t know about important projects like these.”
Speaking to the finalists, she explained “You’re now part of a community, although the project runs for a 12-month period. You’re part of the family now.”