OCT •
22
• 2025

ZIFF BALLET OPERA HOUSE Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

BEACON AWARDS

Celebrate innovation, leadership, and transformative impact at the 2025 Beacon Awards, honoring Miami’s changemakers and marking The Beacon Council’s 40th anniversary of driving economic excellence.

Celebrating

40 YEARS OF BUILDING
MIAMI TOGETHER

From setting a focused, shared vision through our “One Community, One Goal” strategic plan to securing corporate headquarters for national and global leaders like Ryder, NBCUniversal Telemundo, Citadel, TelevisaUnivision, MSC Cruises, the Miami-Dade Beacon Council has dedicated the past four decades driving economic growth and making a lasting impact. Supporting local businesses on both hard days – like right after Hurricane Andrew or during the pandemic – and every day in between, Greater Miami’s official economic development organization is working for our community day in and day out. The Beacon Council Foundation has been the catalyst for Miami’s transformation into a world class business hub, and our unwavering belief remains simple yet powerful: when a community unites, its potential knows no bounds.

JOIN US

The Beacon Awards is our signature celebration where Greater Miami’s brightest leaders, groundbreaking businesses, and impactful institutions take center stage. As we commemorate The Beacon Council’s 40th anniversary, the Beacon Awards return for their 18th edition. Since 2002, The Beacon Awards have evolved alongside our vibrant community, but their purpose remains the same: to honor the extraordinary efforts that drive Miami forward. The awards are more than a celebration — they are a call to action for continued innovation and collaboration.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Ziff Ballet Opera House, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
Cocktail Reception: 5 pm – 6 pm
Dinner & Awards Ceremony: 6 pm – 9 pm

Sponsorships & Tables

This isn’t just another awards night — it’s a milestone celebration, marking the first Beacon Awards since 2019 and commemorating the Beacon Council’s 40th anniversary. With new awards, fresh honors, and an inspiring look at Miami’s future, this promises to be a night of connection, recognition, and momentum. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable evening!

‍YOUR SUPPORT = ECONOMIC IMPACT
‍Your sponsorship supports The Beacon Council Foundation – a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to promote community-wide economic development and prosperity in Miami-Dade County for all.

‍CELEBRATE & SUPPORT GREATER MIAMI’S VISIONARIES
Take an active role in honoring the individuals, businesses, and organizations driving Miami-Dade’s extraordinary growth.

‍AMPLIFY YOUR BRAND’S VISIBILITY
Showcase your business to a high-impact audience of top business and community leaders, with added exposure across industry media and press.

‍CONNECT WITH THE BEST OF MIAMI’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Build meaningful relationships with influential decision-makers  across industries,including company founders, C-suite leaders, civic leaders, past Miami-Dade Beacon Council Chairs, and current leadership.

SPONSORSHIP

TITLE SPONSOR
SOLD
$100,000
1
GaME CHANGER SPONSOR
SOLD
$75,000
1
PRIVATE RECEPTION SPONSOR
SOLD
$50,000
1
JAY MALINA AWARD SPONSOR*
SOLD
$50,000
2
FOUNDERS AWARD SPONSOR
SOLD
$40,000
1
PRESENTING SPONSORS**
SOLD
$25,000
8
PARTNER SPONSORS
SOLD
$15,000
10
CATALYST SPONSORS
SOLD
$12,000
20
TABLE ONLY
SOLD
$10,000
20
TABLE ONLY
SOLD
TABLE ONLY
$10,000
10

*If one company sponsors both awards, cost reduced to $80,000 (20% savings)
**One for each of the 8 awards (6 Industry & 2 Category)

CONTACT US

Paula Hopkins Headshot
DR. PAULA HOPKINS
EVP, Strategic Partnerships & Funding Development
Miami-Dade Beacon Council
Julio Piti Headshot
JULIO PITI
Vice President, Investor Relations & Funding Development
Miami-Dade Beacon Council

THAN K YOU

TITLE SPONSOR

Logo for Citadel Securities

GAME CHANGER SPONSORS

Logo for MasTec
Logo for Inter Miami Football Club

PRIVATE RECEPTION SPONSORS

Logo for Codina Partners
Logo for Regency Parc

JAY MALINA 2025 AWARD SPONSOR

JAY MALINA 2025
AWARD SPONSOR

Logo for Baptist Health

JAY MALINA 2020 AWARD SPONSORS

Logo for Pinnacle Housing
Logo for Ellen and Louis Wolfson III
Logo for Armando Rivera & AJO Consulting

FOUNDERS AWARD SPONSOR

Logo for Dosal Tobacco

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Logo for Miami International Airport
Aviation & Aerospace
Logo for Miami Dade College
Finance
Logo for MasTec
Life Science & Healthcare
Logo for Diaz Reus law firm
ONE2Watch
Professional Services
Wordmark for millennium
Small Business
Logo for Nicklaus Children's Hospital
Technology
Logo for Philip Morris International
Trade & Logistics

PARTNER SPONSORS

Logo for Amazon
Logo for American Airlines
Logo for Banesco
Logo for Career Source South Florida
Logo for FPL
Logo for Miami Herald
Logo for rbb Communications
Logo for Savills
Logo for South Florida Business Journal
Logo for TD Bank
Logo for 305 Transportation

CATALYST SPONSORS

Logo for AAR
Logo for Bank of America
Logo for Berkshire Hathaway
Logo for Fifth Third
Logo for Florida International University Foundation
Logo for Florida East Coast Realty, LLC Panorama Tower
Logo for Greenberg Traurig
Logo for Grupo Eulen
Logo for Goldfarb
Wordmark for Argiz family
Logo for World Trade Center Miami
Logo for WOT

TABLE SPONSORS

Altura
Barry University
Becker
Bermello & Ajamil and Partners
Boeing
Carlton Fields
Duty Free
FedEX
Grove Trust Bank
Holland and Knight
JP Morgan
Kaseya
Knight Foundation
LeMartec
LeverX
Northern Trust
PNC Bank
Sidley Austin
St. Thomas University
Synovus
Truist
University of Miami
A room of people sitting at round table watching a presentation and presenter on stage

“I’m incredibly proud to bring back the Beacon Awards during my term. It’s a true honor to recognize the visionary leaders who uplift our community and who embody the mission of The Beacon Council—to grow a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Miami-Dade. We reimagined these awards, introducing new and meaningful ways to recognize and celebrate the people who pour their heart and hustle into building a brighter future for Greater Miami.”

JC Liscano Headshot
Juan Carlos “JC” Liscano
Vice President, Miami Hub for American Airlines
Miami-Dade Beacon Council Board Chair
Presenting

THE AWARDS

INDUSTRY AWARDS

TARGET INDUSTRY

Recognizes six (6) Miami-Dade County-based businesses, organizations and/or leaders that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth in each of Greater Miami’s target industries:

• Aviation & Aerospace
• Finance
• Life Sciences & Healthcare
• Technology
• Trade & Logistics
• Professional Services

DEADLINE JULY 18 2025

AVIATION & AEROSPACE

Awarded to a Miami-Dade County-based business in any industry sector that has demonstrated an impact and commitment to building a more sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economy for Greater Miami. Must have less than 50 employees and been in business for a minimum of 3 years.

DEADLINE JULY 18 2025

ONE2WATCH

The One2Watch Award honors a bold, visionary leader under 45 who is shaping what’s next for Greater Miami. This honoree represents the future of our economy—driven by purpose, grounded in innovation, and committed to building a region that is resilient, forward thinking, and globally connected. They are not just making waves in their industry—they are redefining leadership in a city known for transformation. As Greater Miami accelerates into its next chapter, the One2Watch is already out front, showing us what progress looks like.

DEADLINE JULY 18 2025

TARGET INDUSTRY

Recognizes six (6) Miami-Dade County-based businesses, organizations and/or leaders that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth in each of Greater Miami’s target industries:

• Aviation & Aerospace
• Finance
• Life Sciences & Healthcare
• Technology
• Trade & Logistics
• Professional Services

DEADLINE JULY 18 2025

TARGET INDUSTRY

Recognizes six (6) Miami-Dade County-based businesses, organizations and/or leaders that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth in each of Greater Miami’s target industries:

• Aviation & Aerospace
• Finance
• Life Sciences & Healthcare
• Technology
• Trade & Logistics
• Professional Services

DEADLINE JULY 18 2025

TARGET INDUSTRY

Recognizes six (6) Miami-Dade County-based businesses, organizations and/or leaders that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth in each of Greater Miami’s target industries:

• Aviation & Aerospace
• Finance
• Life Sciences & Healthcare
• Technology
• Trade & Logistics
• Professional Services

DEADLINE JULY 18 2025

AVIATION & AEROSPACE

Airlines, aircraft maintenance and repair organizations, aerospace manufacturers, avionics and defense technology firms, flight training centers, and other companies/service providers serving this sector that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

AVIATION & AEROSPACE

FINALIST
AAR
GECI GROUP
IATA

FINANCE

Banks, wealth management firms, private equity & venture capital firms, fintech, hedge funds, family offices, investment firms, and other related firms that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

FINANCE

FINALIST
ALTURA CAPITAL
BANESCO USA
HARLEM CAPITAL

LIFE SCIENCES & HEALTHCARE

Hospitals and healthcare systems, research institutions, biotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

LIFE SCIENCES & HEALTHCARE

FINALIST
NICKLAUS CHILDREN'S HEALTH SYSTEM
RETO HEALTH
TOUCHLAND

TECHNOLOGY

Fintech, proptech, healthtech, edtech, logistics technology, cybersecurity firms, resiliency tech, AI, blockchain, digital media firms, SaaS, e-commerce, data management, and other tech/innovation companies that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

TECHNOLOGY

FINALIST
HOTWIRE
KASEYA
LEVERX

TRADE & LOGISTICS

Freight forwarding, supply chain management, e-commerce distribution centers, cold storage operators, maritime shipping companies, shipping companies that are driving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economic growth.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

TRADE & LOGISTICS

FINALIST
AMERIWORLD FULFILLMENT
INTERPORT LOGISTICS
MSC Cruises USA

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Law firms, media, consulting firms, marketing and communications agencies, architectural and engineering firms, accounting firms, HR and staffing firms, and other business service providers that support economic growth and innovation.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

FINALIST
GREENBERG TRAURIG
GUNSTER
SIDLEY AUSTIN

SMALL  BUSINESS

This award honors an exceptional Miami-Dade-based small business that punches above its weight—driving meaningful impact, creating opportunity, and helping to shape the region’s economic future. With fewer than 50 employees and a track record of at least three years, this company exemplifies the innovation, resilience, and community commitment that define Greater Miami’s entrepreneurial spirit. Across industries, small businesses are the backbone of our economy—and this award recognizes one standout enterprise making a big difference.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

SMALL BUSINESS

FINALIST
INGAGE biz
KIND DESIGNS
LAB22C

ONE2WATCH

The One2Watch Award honors a bold, visionary leader under 45 who is shaping what’s next for Greater Miami. This honoree represents the future of our economy—driven by purpose, grounded in innovation, and committed to building a region that is resilient, forward thinking, and globally connected. They are not just making waves in their industry—they are redefining leadership in a city known for transformation. As Greater Miami accelerates into its next chapter, the One2Watch is already out front, showing us what progress looks like.

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

ONE2WATCH

FINALIST
Portrait shot of Austin Hollo
Austin Hollo
FLORIDA EAST COAST REALTY
Portrait shot of Johanna Mikkola
Johanna Mikkola
MOMENTUM MIAMI
Portrait shot of Sylvia LePoidevin
Sylvia Le Poidevin
KANDJI
FOUNDATION AWARDS

JAY MALINA AWARD

CHOSEN BY PAST CHAIRS

Since the inception of The Beacon Awards, the Jay Malina Award has been presented to the local executive who has done the most to enhance Miami-Dade County through professional success and civic participation. Recognizing uncompromising integrity and leadership, the award honors the late Jay T. Malina, Founder and Co-Chair of the One Community One Goal initiative that established a master plan and implementation process focused on job creation for Greater Miami, Jay's legacy and his vision for a greater Miami-Dade County lives on. Jay's wife, Jana Sigars-Malina, and their daughter Powell proudly join The Beacon Council annually to present the Jay Malina Award to an individual who, like Jay, best combines economic development and business success with positive community involvement.

Portrait shot of Dr Eduarrdo Padron
2020 Recipient to be Recognized This Year
DR. EDUARDO PADRÓN
President Emeritus of Miami Dade College
Group photo of Jorge Mas, Juan Carlos Mas and José R. Mas
2025 Recipient
MAS FAMILY
Jorge Mas, Juan Carlos Mas, & José R. Mas

FOUNDERS AWARD

CHOSEN BY HOST COMMITTEE

Established in 1985 by Sidney Levin, Theodore Hoepner, and Merrett R. Stierheim, The Beacon Council was built on the belief that economic success is a collective effort, one that thrives when business leaders, public officials, and communitystakeholders unite with a shared purpose. This award recognizes those who carry forward that legacy, demonstrating visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and an unwavering dedication to advancing Miami’s prosperity.

A new recognition award to be presented annually, Beacon’s Founders’ Award honors an individual or organization that has made a profound and lasting impact on Greater Miami’s economic landscape, embodying the founding vision of The Beacon Council—championing business growth, fostering public-private collaboration, and positioning Greater Miami as a world-class business destination.

Portrait shot of Alex Villoch
2025 Recipient
ALEXANDRA VILLOCH
CEO of Baptist Health Foundation
Arsht Center Miami

“For four decades, The Beacon Council has been a trusted steward of Greater Miami’s economic future—partnering with business, government, and community leaders to build a stronger, more resilient region. By attracting investment, driving growth, and expanding opportunity, this 40th anniversary stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and long-term vision. It’s a time to honor the strategic partnerships, catalytic investments, and collective leadership that have shaped our dynamic economy—and to reaffirm our shared commitment to what comes next.”

Rodrick Miller Headshot
RODRICK MILLER
President and CEO
Miami-Dade Beacon Council

OUR HISTORY

The Beacon Awards, established in 2002, celebrate individuals, businesses, and organizations driving Miami’s economic growth and innovation. Over the years, the awards have recognized excellence across industries like aviation, finance, healthcare, and technology, with notable honors such as the Jay Malina Award, which celebrates individuals enhancing Miami-Dade through professional success and civic engagement. This year also introduces the Founders Award, honoring those who embody the founding principles of The Beacon Council, further cementing the event as a cornerstone of Miami’s business and economic community.

14th Beacon Awards Brochure
Mayor Cava presenting an award.
3 winners holding with their trophies
Donna Abood Speaking

“The Beacon Awards are more than just a celebration—they are a testament to the innovation, resilience, and leadership that define Miami’s business community. As we bring this event back for its 18th edition, we have a unique opportunity to not only honor those who drive our economy forward but also to reinforce Miami’s standing as a world-class business hub. I am deeply committed to this event because I believe in the power of recognizing excellence, fostering connections, and championing the businesses and individuals shaping our region’s Future.”

Donna Abood Headshot
DONNA ABOOD
Vice-Chairman and Co-Head, Savills Florida
Chair, Beacon Awards Committee
Board Member and Past Chair, Miami-Dade Beacon Council
Beacon Award Trophies