Simpay's Lazaros Kalemis Earns Spot As EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2024 Finalist

Lazaros Kalemis, CEO & Founder of Simpay, has recently been honored as a finalist for the prestigious Entrepreneur Of The Year 2024 Greater Philadelphia Award. This recognition is part of a program that is currently in its 38th year and is renowned for acknowledging bold leaders who have made significant impacts by disrupting markets and transforming sectors. Kalemis's selection as a finalist was influenced by his exceptional ability to create long-term value, underscored by his entrepreneurial spirit, purpose-driven growth, and impactful contributions.

Kalemis's journey to success is both inspiring and unique. As a first-generation Greek American entrepreneur and a resilient two-time cancer survivor, he co-founded Simpay in 2000. The company, which started in a modest one-bedroom apartment above his parent's pizza restaurant, aimed to offer payment acceptance solutions tailored for small businesses. Today, Simpay has grown significantly, providing thousands of business owners across the United States with its comprehensive Total Business Solutions platform. Kalemis expressed immense pride in the achievements of the Simpay team and their role in supporting business owners nationwide.

The regional award winners will be announced on June 6, joining the distinguished ranks of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni. These regional victors will also be contenders for the national awards scheduled to be presented in November during the annual Strategic Growth Forum. The Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards are not just about celebrating individual achievements but also about fostering a supportive community among innovative leaders.

EY US, the organization behind this esteemed program, extends its support to other entrepreneurs through initiatives like EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women and EY Entrepreneurs Access Network. These programs are designed to empower women founders and Black and Hispanic/Latino entrepreneurs by connecting them with essential resources, networks, and opportunities necessary for their success.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards have a rich history of celebrating visionary entrepreneurs across the United States since their inception. With presenting sponsors including PNC Bank, Cresa, SAP, and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the program has recognized over 11,000 entrepreneurs. Additional support in the Greater Philadelphia area comes from Donnelley Financial Solutions, Lockton, Marsh USA, ADP, and Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP. This global initiative now spans nearly 80 countries and territories around the world.

Simpay, headquartered in Trevose, PA, stands out in the Fintech industry by offering an array of services including human capital management services, commercial insurance coverage, integrated payment acceptance, and business growth tools. The company's mission is to deliver 360° Total Business Solutions that cater to every aspect of a business's lifecycle. Simpay's commitment to simplicity, quality, and transparency has been pivotal in its success and continues to drive its efforts in supporting businesses across North America.